Rock Identifier
Crinoid Stem Fossil (Crinoid columnal (Echinodermata)) — fossil
fossil

Crinoid Stem Fossil

Crinoid columnal (Echinodermata)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 3 on Mohs scale due to calcitic composition; white, gray, or tan color; vitreous to dull luster; distinct circular or pentagonal shape with a central canal.

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Physical properties

Hardness of 3 on Mohs scale due to calcitic composition; white, gray, or tan color; vitreous to dull luster; distinct circular or pentagonal shape with a central canal.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the fossilization of marine invertebrate stem segments, typically dating from the Paleozoic era (Ordovician to Permian, 485 to 250 million years ago) in shallow marine environments.

Uses & applications

Valued by fossil collectors, used in educational displays, and sometimes polished for jewelry or ornamental use.

Geological facts

Crinoids are commonly known as 'sea lilies' and their fossilized columnals are often called 'Indian beads' or 'St. Cuthbert's beads'.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by their characteristic bead-like shape and symmetry, frequently found weathered out of limestone or shale rock formations worldwide.

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Fossilized bivalve shell; exact species cannot be identified from the image

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Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix (Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea) — fossil

Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

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Fossiliferous limestone (likely a crinoidal or shell-fragment limestone) (Bioclastic limestone, composed chiefly of calcite (CaCO₃)) — sedimentary

Fossiliferous limestone (likely a crinoidal or shell-fragment limestone)

Bioclastic limestone, composed chiefly of calcite (CaCO₃)

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Porous limestone pebble (Calcite-rich limestone (primarily CaCO₃); exact identification is uncertain from the image) — sedimentary

Porous limestone pebble

Calcite-rich limestone (primarily CaCO₃); exact identification is uncertain from the image

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Weathered fossil bone fragment (identification uncertain)

Fossilized bone; exact taxon and mineral composition cannot be determined from the image

fossil