fossil

Crinoidean Fossil (Stem Fragment)

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3 (calcite preservation); Color: brownish-grey; Luster: dull to earthy; Structure: cylindrical or stacked disc-like segments (columnals); Cleavage: rhombohedral in individual crystals

Hardness: 3 (calcite preservation)
Color: brownish-grey
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified July 5, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 (calcite preservation); Color: brownish-grey; Luster: dull to earthy; Structure: cylindrical or stacked disc-like segments (columnals); Cleavage: rhombohedral in individual crystals

Formation & geological history

Formed from the mineralized remains of marine sea lilies during the Paleozoic or Mesozoic eras (approx. 250-500 million years ago) in shallow seabed environments.

Uses & applications

Scientific education, fossil collecting, and occasionally used in jewelry or decorative crafts when found in large matrices.

Geological facts

Crinoids are actually animals, not plants, despite their 'sea lily' nickname. They are related to modern starfish and sea urchins.

Field identification & locations

Look for distinctive 'cheerio' or gear-shaped patterns on the surface of sedimentary rocks like limestone. Often found in abundance in riverbeds or limestone quarries.