fossil

Crinoid Fossil Fragment

Crinoidea (echinoderm fossil embedded in limestone/matrix)

Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale (for calcite/fossil parts); Color: Light grey, tan, or white; Luster: Dull to vitreous on crystal faces; Crystal structure: Trigonal (calcite); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in calcite; Specific gravity: 2.6 to 2.7

Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale (for calcite/fossil parts)
Color: Light grey, tan, or white
Luster: Dull to vitreous on crystal faces

Identified August 3, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation of skeletal remains (mostly stem ossicles) of crinoids (sea lilies) deposited in ancient marine environments, typically during the Paleozoic to Mesozoic eras, later lithified into sedimentary rock.

Uses & applications

Valued by fossil collectors, educational purposes, and occasionally polished for ornamental display.

Geological facts

Crinoids are often called 'sea lilies' because of their plant-like appearance, though they are actually marine animals related to starfish and sea urchins. Their circular stem segments are sometimes colloquially known as 'Indian beads' or 'fairy money'.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by characteristic circular or star-shaped button-like segments with a central hole. Commonly found in limestone and shale deposits worldwide, especially in areas with ancient shallow sea beds.

Other fossil specimens

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Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

fossil

Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

sedimentary

Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

sedimentary

Crinoid Stem Fossils (Indian Beads / St. Cuthbert's Beads)

Crinoid columnal ossicles (phylum Echinodermata)

fossil

Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

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Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

sedimentary