fossil

Crinoid Stem Fossil

Crinoid columnal (Echinodermata)

Hardness varies depending on mineral replacement (typically Mohs 3 for calcite), gray to brownish color, dull to vitreous luster, often shows segmented columnals with a central lumen (canal), specific gravity around 2.7.

Identified August 2, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in marine environments during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras (over 300 million years ago) when crinoids (sea lilies) died and their segmented stem plates were buried and fossilized in limestone or shale.

Uses & applications

Collected by fossil enthusiasts, used in educational settings to teach about prehistoric marine life and paleontology.

Geological facts

Crinoids are animals, not plants, despite their common name 'sea lilies'. They are related to starfish and sea urchins. In some cultures, fossilized crinoid stems are known as 'St. Cuthbert's beads' or Indian bead stones.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by their circular or pentagonal segmented patterns resembling little wheels or screw threads. Commonly found in limestone deposits worldwide, particularly in road cuts, riverbeds, and quarries.

Other fossil specimens

See all

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

Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

fossil

Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Limestone with Crinoid stems

Limestone (CaCO3) containing Crinoidea fossils

sedimentary