Location: Majanga, Madagascar
Weight: 4.6 Ounces
Dimensions: 69MM
This is a genuine fossil.
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Pygurus Marmonti Sand Dollar is also called Fossil Sea Urchin. It is a member of the Echinoid family, it was alive during the Jurassic Age (approx. 145 - 200 million years ago. It exhibits a fine 5-ray star. This fossil sea urchin is from Madagascar and has been polished on the side of the specimen.
A Fossil Sand Dollar from Madagascar is a preserved imprint or mold of an ancient sea urchin that once lived in the ocean floor sediments. These fossils are typically found in sedimentary rocks and are highly valued by collectors and paleontologists due to their unique and intricate designs.
The fossilization process of a Sand Dollar in Madagascar begins when the sea urchin dies and settles on the ocean floor. Over time, sediments such as sand, silt, and clay accumulate on top of the sea urchin, preserving its imprint or mold. As more layers of sediment build up, the pressure and chemical reactions cause the organic material to decompose, leaving behind a cast of the sea urchin’s original structure. Eventually, the sediment hardens into sedimentary rock, such as limestone or shale, trapping the fossil within.
Please be aware of the nature of fossils:
Being buried under the ground for millions of years under tons of pressure tends to be rough. No fossil comes out of the ground whole and perfect. Most fossils have undergone some restoration, while others are altered by man simply to enhance their presentation in different ways. The workers in Madagascar do a very professional job, of unearthing and preserving these natural treasures, however, commonly natural cracks are visible on the surface. These are part of the natural beauty of the fossil and are not considered defects.
