Representative ImageTrilobites
·Real Fossil
Elrathia Trilobite
- Real Fossil
- 507 million years
- Ships worldwide
£15.99
● In stock — dispatched within 2 working days
An iconic Middle Cambrian trilobite from the historic Wheeler Shale of Utah, showcasing remarkable 507-million-year-old detail. Elrathia trilobites are around 2 cm wide and about 1.5–2 cm tall, with most specimens falling close to this size, though variation can occur.
Gift Suitable
Boxed specimen perfect for young collectors
Specimen Record
DTF-AEE6E7D0Representative image
Photographs show a typical example. Your item will be similar but not identical.
- Species
- Elrathia kingii
- Identification confidence
- Not recorded
- Age
- 507 million years
- Geological period
- Middle Cambrian
- Formation
- Wheeler Shale / Wheeler Formation
- Locality
- Millard County, Utah, USA
- Dimensions
- Not recorded
- Weight
- Not recorded
Condition & Treatment
- Repair
- Not recorded
- Restoration
- Not recorded
- Stabilisation
- Not recorded
- Polishing
- Not recorded
- Composite
- Not recorded
"Not recorded" means we hold no verified record for that detail — it is not a claim either way.
Curator Note
The Elrathia kingii is scientifically notable for its ability to flourish in 'exaerobic' zones—environments at the very fringe of low-oxygen waters where few other species could survive. Specimens from the Antelope Springs locality are particularly prized for their clean contrast against the grey shale matrix, making them as aesthetically pleasing as they are scientifically significant.
At a Glance
Type
Genuine fossil
Display
Presented in a display box; sits well on a small easel or display stand.
Gift suitable
Yes
About This Fossil
The Elrathia kingii remains one of the most iconic and recognisable trilobites in the palaeontological record. Characterised by its elegant oval body and smooth, dark exoskeleton, this medium-small arthropod represents a quintenssential example of the ptychopariid group. Each specimen typically displays a well-defined thorax of 13 segments and a rounded cephalon featuring distinct, crescent-shaped eyes that once scanned the ancient Cambrian seafloors.\n\nOwning an Elrathia is a tangible connection to a world long before the rise of dinosaurs or even the first terrestrial forests. These creatures thrived over half a billion years ago, navigating the fine muds of quiet marine basins. Their abundance in the fossil record does not diminish their majesty; rather, it provides a comprehensive look at one of the most successful body plans in the history of complex life.
Formation & Preservation
These fossils are found within the Wheeler Shale of Utah, a geological unit famed for its exceptional preservation. During the Middle Cambrian, this area was a deep-water basin where fine-grained sediments were deposited under low-oxygen conditions. This lack of oxygen inhibited both scavenging and rapid decay, allowing the delicate exoskeletons of these trilobites to be preserved in extraordinary detail within the laminated mudstone.
What Makes This Specimen Special
The Elrathia kingii is scientifically notable for its ability to flourish in 'exaerobic' zones—environments at the very fringe of low-oxygen waters where few other species could survive. Specimens from the Antelope Springs locality are particularly prized for their clean contrast against the grey shale matrix, making them as aesthetically pleasing as they are scientifically significant.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine fossil — not a replica unless clearly stated. Clearly described and honestly presented.
- You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown — see Natural Variation below.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established suppliers and known commercial sites. We do not buy from localities we know to be protected, scientifically restricted, or subject to export controls. Origin and sourcing information is shared where known.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle specimens removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Millard County, Utah, USA) and formation (Wheeler Shale / Wheeler Formation) are based on supplier information and available geological references. Identification can vary in certainty — especially for fragments — so where exact locality cannot be independently verified, we describe the formation rather than a single quarry.
Fossils are natural objects. Expect minor variation in colour, surface texture, and matrix, mineralisation and surface detail. Treatment information is shown under Condition & Treatment where it is recorded. “Not recorded” means we hold no verified record for that detail; it is not a claim that no treatment occurred.
Read our full authenticity & honest descriptions policy or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders of £50 or more. Standard £4.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48, typically 2–3 working days after dispatch).
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Within 2 working days (framed, mounted, or made-to-order pieces take 1 additional working day).
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.