fossil

Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary Rock with Invertebrate Fossil Imprint

Hardness varies (typically 3 to 4 on Mohs scale depending on matrix), color is yellowish-brown to tan, luster is dull or earthy, amorphous crystal structure of the host matrix with calcitic or silicious fossil remains.

Identified August 7, 2026More fossil →

Explore Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral and organic particles (sediments) in aquatic environments over millions of years, trapping ancient biological remains.

Uses & applications

Used for paleontological study, educational purposes, and as a collectible specimen for fossil enthusiasts.

Geological facts

Fossils provide direct evidence of the history of life on Earth and help scientists reconstruct past environments and climates.

Field identification & locations

Look for distinct shapes, imprints, or textures differing from the surrounding rock matrix; commonly found in sedimentary layers such as limestone, shale, and sandstone.

Other fossil specimens

See all

Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

fossil

Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

sedimentary

Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

sedimentary

Crinoid Stem Fossils (Indian Beads / St. Cuthbert's Beads)

Crinoid columnal ossicles (phylum Echinodermata)

fossil

Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

fossil

Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

sedimentary