Vault Series #3 - Large Pyritized Crinoid
Price on Request
This stunning pyritized crinoid ("sea lily") is from the Holzmaden Shale in Germany, which boasts some of the best-preserved fossils ever documented. This specimen is a testament to the beauty and intricacy of prehistoric life. The large size, immaculate preservation and striking aesthetics make it a world class piece. This beautiful crinoid specimen has a natural covering of sparkling pyrite that is particularly lustrous.
This crinoid thrived in warm Jurassic seas that teemed with marine reptiles like ichthyosaurs, a variety of ammonites and many fish species. Although they resemble plants, crinoids are in fact filter-feeding invertebrates related to starfish and sea urchins. Interestingly, crinoids are considered living fossils - about 600 species inhabit today's oceans, many of which have vibrant coloration.
Recently, marine fossils have been trending as showcase pieces in home interiors and crinoids in particular are sought after by fine art enthusiasts, designers and architects.
Note: Specimen has been inset into the shale matrix
TAXONOMY
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Crinoidea
- Species: Seirocrinus subangularis
GEOLOGICAL CONTEXT
- Formation: Posidonia Shale
- Location: Holzmaden, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany
- Age: Lower Jurassic (approximately 180 million years old)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
- Slab dimensions: 70.75 x 35.5 in (179.7 cm x 90.2 cm). - 1 large flowerhead, 20.5 inches
- Weight: 216 lbs (28.6 kg)
- Custom wall-hanging metal frame included
- Please contact us about shipping arrangements
