fossil

Crinoid Stem Fossil

Crinoid Columnal (Phylum Echinodermata)

Hardness: 3 (carbonite/calcite); Color: Tan to brown; Luster: Dull/earthy; Structure: Cylindrical with distinct horizontal segments (ossicles) and often a central hole (lumen).

Hardness: 3 (carbonite/calcite)
Color: Tan to brown
Luster: Dull/earthy

Identified July 1, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 (carbonite/calcite); Color: Tan to brown; Luster: Dull/earthy; Structure: Cylindrical with distinct horizontal segments (ossicles) and often a central hole (lumen).

Formation & geological history

Formed from the mineralized remains of marine animals known as sea lilies. These specimens typically date from the Paleozoic era (approx. 250-500 million years ago) and formed in shallow marine environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for educational study, geological research, and as a popular item for amateur fossil collectors and jewelry ('Saint Cuthbert's beads').

Geological facts

Crinoids are actually animals, not plants, despite their floral appearance. They are related to starfish and sea urchins. Their fossilized segments are so common in some limestone that the rock is called crinoidal limestone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for small 'checkered' or circular stacked disks that resemble tiny nuts or screws. Commonly found in limestone outcrops, riverbeds, and gravel pits across the United Kingdom and North America.

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Fossiliferous Limestone

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Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

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Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

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Fossiliferous Limestone with Crinoid stems

Limestone (CaCO3) containing Crinoidea fossils

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Crinoid Fossil in Limestone

Crinoidea fossil (stalk segments) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

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