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Eurypterid “Sea Scorpion” Fossil Pair in Wooden Display Case
- Real Fossil
- 443–419 million years ago
- Ships worldwide
£245.00
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An evocative pair of Silurian 'Sea Scorpions' (Eurypterids) showing fine segmented detail, presented in a bespoke glazed wooden display case.
Specimen Details
Species
Eurypterida (Gen. et sp. indet.)
Age
443–419 million years ago
Period
Silurian
Origin
Exact locality unknown; believed to be from a classic Silurian eurypterid-bearing deposit. Similar specimens are commonly known from western Ukraine and New York State, USA, but no confirmed locality information accompanies this specimen.
Type
Genuine fossil
Display
Excellent — housed in a custom wooden display case (16cm x 16.5cm) with a glass frontage.
Listing
Exact specimen shown
About This Fossil
This remarkable specimen features a pair of Eurypterids, colloquially known as 'sea scorpions', preserved upon a single matrix. These ancient aquatic arthropods were amongst the most formidable predators of the Palaeozoic era and are distantly related to contemporary arachnids and horseshoe crabs. The main specimen is centrally positioned and beautifully preserved, exhibiting the characteristic ribbed body segments and distinct eyes. While one swimming paddle is absent, the remaining paddle-like appendage provides a clear insight into how these creatures navigated their marine environment.
Accompanying the primary specimen is a second, smaller Eurypterid. Although this individual is incomplete—missing approximately one-third of its body length—it nevertheless displays excellent morphological detail, including visible eyes and the distinctive dorsal ribbing. Acquired from a private collection, this duo offers a rare opportunity to own two examples of these enigmatic 'sea scorpions' on a single piece of stone, providing a fascinating snapshot of Silurian marine life.
Formation & Preservation
Eurypterids were typically preserved in fine-grained sedimentary environments, such as the quiet, oxygen-poor waters of lagoons or estuarine basins. These conditions allowed their chitinous exoskeletons to be covered by silt and mud before they could be disrupted by scavengers or decay.
Over millions of years, the weight of accumulating sediment compressed these layers, and mineral-rich waters slowly replaced or reinforced the organic material. The result is a carbonaceous film or a finely detailed impression that captures the delicate segmented anatomy and specialized appendages of these ancient arthropods.
What Makes This Specimen Special
What makes this piece particularly desirable is the presence of two specimens on one matrix, offering a sense of 'depth' to the fossil record. The inclusion of a custom-built wooden display case not only protects the delicate matrix but elevated the piece to a museum-style exhibit immediately suitable for a library or study shelf. While the case shows minor signs of its history in a private collection, it remains an elegant and secure housing for such an ancient relic.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine fossil. Authenticity guaranteed in writing.
- You will receive the exact fossil shown in the photographs.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established, long-standing suppliers and known commercial sites — never protected, scientifically significant, or restricted localities.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle fossils removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Exact locality unknown; believed to be from a classic Silurian eurypterid-bearing deposit. Similar specimens are commonly known from western Ukraine and New York State, USA, but no confirmed locality information accompanies this specimen.) reflect the best information from our supplier and accepted geological literature. 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, matrix, mineralisation, and surface detail. Any significant repair, restoration, or composite preparation is disclosed in the description — we never present restored areas as original without saying so.
Read our full authenticity guarantee or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders over £50. Standard £3.95.
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Usually within 1–2 working days.
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.