A stunning example of a crinoid fossil of the species Pentacrinites fossilis from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Charmouth, Dorset UK.
The fossil measures 40 mm (1.57 inches) across, which is small for a crinoid head, making this a juvenile animal. The fossil consists of the underside of a detailed head with a crown of arms and pinnules as well as the calyx (head attachment plate) preserved in 3D. It is preserved in calcite and was found in two pieces and has been repaired back together. These crinoids are very sought after and not easy to find these days, and small juvenile examples like this are very uncommon.
Around 196 million years old (Sinemurian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.
Crinoids are echinoderms closely related to starfish and sea urchins, and have been around for many hundreds of millions of years. They still live today in the deep seas around the world.