fossil
Fossilized Brachiopod Shell Fragment
Brachiopoda (Class: Rhynchonellata or Strophomenata)
Hardness: 3-4 (Calcite composition); Color: Off-white to grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Biconvex shell with radial ribs (costae); Cleavage: N/A (Fossilized structure)
- Hardness
- 3-4 (Calcite composition)
- Color
- Off-white to grey
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Calcite composition); Color: Off-white to grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Biconvex shell with radial ribs (costae); Cleavage: N/A (Fossilized structure)
Formation & geological history
Formed through the process of permineralization or recrystallization of marine shells in sedimentary environments, typically Paleozoic or Mesozoic era (approx. 50-500 million years old)
Uses & applications
Educational collections, scientific study of paleoenvironments, and decorative fossil displays
Geological facts
Brachiopods are 'lamp shells' that have existed for over 500 million years; unlike clams which have left/right shells, brachiopods have top/bottom shells
Field identification & locations
Identify by symmetrical radial ribbing and the presence of a 'beak' or pedicle opening. Common in limestone and shale deposits globally
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