fossil

Fossil brachiopod in limestone

Brachiopoda; commonly a spiriferid or strophomenid brachiopod preserved in calcite-rich limestone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen shows a ribbed, fan- to oval-shaped shell impression with weathered gray-beige calcite and likely limestone matrix. Brachiopod shell calcite has Mohs hardness ~3, vitreous to dull luster, and rhombohedral cleavage; specific gravity is ~2.7.

Identified August 23, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Brachiopods are marine animals whose shells were buried and mineral-preserved in shallow-water carbonate sediments, commonly during the Paleozoic Era (541–252 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Primarily collected as a fossil specimen or educational material; polished examples may be decorative, but it has little industrial value.

Geological facts

Brachiopods resemble clams but have unequal valves and bilateral symmetry through each shell, unlike bivalves. The prominent radial ribs are characteristic of many fossil genera.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the strongly ribbed shell, central symmetry, and limestone matrix; dilute hydrochloric acid may fizz on exposed carbonate. Common in Paleozoic marine limestones worldwide, especially North America and Europe.