fossil

Seashell Fossil

Invertebrate Bivalve / Gastropod Fossil (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness of 3-4 on the Mohs scale, typically white or cream colored with radial ribs, vitreous to dull luster, composed of aragonite or calcite crystal structure.

Identified July 31, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 3-4 on the Mohs scale, typically white or cream colored with radial ribs, vitreous to dull luster, composed of aragonite or calcite crystal structure.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and fossilization of marine mollusk shells in sedimentary environments over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in decorative items, shell collecting, educational displays, and as indicators of paleoenvironments in geology.

Geological facts

Fossilized shells provide crucial evidence of ancient marine ecosystems and sea-level changes throughout Earth's history.

Field identification & locations

Found worldwide in sedimentary rock layers, particularly in limestone and shale deposits; easily identified by distinct exterior growth ribs and natural shell shape.

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Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

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Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

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Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

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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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