Floating Crinoid Saccocoma pectinata from Solnhofen

Originating in the famous, 150 million year old Jurassic Solnhofen Lithographic Limestone deposits near Bavaria, Germany, these pelagic (free-floating) comatulid crinoids are known as Saccocoma pectinata. They occur in seven separate layers deposited over some ½ million years, and are found dispersed among an amazing diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms, the most famous of which is the dinosaur-age bird Archaeopteryx.

This example is on a 3.2 by 2.7 inch limestone matrix. These fossils are often painted or stained to enhance the subtle contrast - this specimen has been left entirely natural.

All fossils from word-famous Lagerstatte Solnhofen are highly collectable. The site had the very special environment required to preserved the delicate floating crinoids.