fossil

Crinoid Stem Fossil (Indian Bead)

Crinoid ossicle (Echinodermata)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (for calcite replacement); Color: White, gray, or tan with crystalline internal patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (calcite); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (for calcite replacement)
Color: White, gray, or tan with crystalline internal patterns
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified August 4, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of crinoid columnals (stems) in ancient marine environments, predominantly during the Paleozoic era (Carboniferous period, roughly 350-300 million years ago), where calcium carbonate replaced the original organic material.

Uses & applications

Used in educational collections, amateur fossil hunting, and occasionally as lapidary material or folk jewelry (often known as St. Cuthbert's beads or Indian beads).

Geological facts

Crinoids are marine animals related to starfish and sea urchins, often called 'sea lilies' because of their plant-like appearance. Their segmented stems easily break apart after death, leaving behind disc-like fossil fragments very common in limestone deposits.

Field identification & locations

Found in limestone and shale deposits worldwide, especially in North America and Europe. Look for small circular or star-shaped discs with a central canal or hole.

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

fossil

Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

sedimentary