#Micraster echinoid fossil

[uk-fossils]

Micraster cortestudinarium Fossil Echinoid Sea Urchin, Upper Chalk, Cretaceous Kent UK | Authentic Specimen + COA

Micraster cortestudinarium Fossil Echinoid – Upper Chalk, Late Cretaceous, Kent, United Kingdom

This beautifully preserved fossil sea urchin is a specimen of Micraster cortestudinarium, one of the most iconic echinoids of the Late Cretaceous. Collected from the Upper Chalk deposits of Kent, southern England, it dates to the Turonian–Coniacian stages of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 90 to 86 million years ago.

Fossil Type & Classification:

Type: Invertebrate Fossil (Regular Echinoid / Sea Urchin)

Species: Micraster cortestudinarium

Phylum: Echinodermata

Class: Echinoidea

Order: Spatangoida

Superfamily: Spatangoidea

Family: Holasteridae

Genus: Micraster

Described by: Goldfuss, 1826 (genus authority)

Geological & Stratigraphic Details:

Location: Kent, United Kingdom

Formation: Upper Chalk Formation

Geological Stage: Turonian–Coniacian, Late Cretaceous

Age: ~90–86 million years ago

Biozone: Micraster cortestudinarium Biozone – named after this species and commonly used in European chalk stratigraphy

Depositional Environment: Warm, shallow marine shelf with low sedimentation rates and high calcium carbonate content, perfect for preserving echinoderm fossils in fine chalk matrix

Morphology & Features: This Micraster cortestudinarium specimen exhibits:

Heart-shaped, domed test with symmetrical bilateral profile

Well-defined ambulacra and petaloid pattern on the upper surface

Distinct anterior groove and central apical system

Fine surface granulation and pore rows visible depending on preservation

Preserved in light grey to creamy white chalk matrix, typical of Upper Cretaceous marine deposits

Notable: Micraster is one of the most important and widely distributed echinoid genera of the Upper Cretaceous. The species M. cortestudinarium serves as a key biostratigraphic marker for the British and European chalk and is frequently used in educational and museum contexts for illustrating Cretaceous sea life. Its abundance and diversity reflect significant evolutionary adaptations during the Cretaceous marine radiation.

Specimen Details:

Origin: Kent, UK

Species: Micraster cortestudinarium

Fossil Type: Regular Echinoid (Sea Urchin Test)

Geological Stage: Turonian–Coniacian, Late Cretaceous

Formation: Upper Chalk

Size Reference: Scale cube = 1cm (please refer to listing photos for exact dimensions)

Note: The exact fossil shown in the listing photo is the one you will receive

Authenticity & Quality: This fossil is 100% genuine, professionally sourced and naturally preserved. It includes a Certificate of Authenticity and has not been artificially enhanced.

Why Choose This Fossil? Excellent for:

Echinoid fossil collectors

Educational fossil displays and teaching

British Cretaceous marine collections

Natural history gifts and décor

Shipping & Packaging: Fossils are packed with eco-conscious materials and shipped with full tracking. Every item is handled carefully to ensure it arrives safely.

Bring home a genuine piece of Britain’s ancient sea life with this authentic Micraster cortestudinarium echinoid fossil from the Upper Chalk of Kent.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

[echinoid-fossils-on-the-rocks]

The largest Micraster echinoid in my collection so far, I will post some pics of the near view with the many tiny dots of it still preserved, on the entire surface in the future.

If the cam let me. It’s famous for it’s almost heart shaped form. 💜

Added my two Toxaster ~ echinoids to it in size & form compared. Have many tabs open with reference and names of a lot of echinoids in comparison but unsure, to note it down here for direct identification of their genus.

[untreacherous]

The Sedgwick Museum is heavenly, and totally satisfying my Echinoid obsession right now. #Cambridge #museum #sedgwickmuseum #fossils #paleontology #micraster #echinoderm (why is there no emoji for these?) (at Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences)

[kaggie1967]

Some days ( yesterday) you #beachcomb and you come across something special. Here is my special. #Micraster #Echinoid #fossil. No it won't be made into anything #beachbum #beachlife #beachcomber #sea #sand #fossils #stones #nature #designedbynature

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Flint Echinoid (Shepherd’s Crown) – Cretaceous Chalk, Seaford Head, Sussex UK – British Sea Urchin Fossil with Certificate

This listing features a genuine Fossil Flint Echinoid, often affectionately referred to as a "Shepherd’s Crown", collected from the Cretaceous Chalk deposits of Seaford Head, Sussex, UK. These iconic echinoid fossils are preserved in flint—a result of millions of years of mineral replacement after the creature’s death on the seabed.

The chalk cliffs of Seaford Head are part of the Upper Cretaceous sequence of southern England, dating back approximately 100 to 66 million years ago. The echinoid species, most likely within the genus Conulus or Micraster, were marine invertebrates related to modern sea urchins. Over time, the original calcite skeletons were dissolved and replaced by silica to form the hard flint fossils we find today.

These echinoids are famed for their distinct five-point symmetry and domed shape, often resembling a crown or star. Flint echinoids are a sought-after classic British fossil due to their excellent preservation, high contrast appearance, and regional collectability.

This specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 24 March 2025, and has been expertly cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison for optimal presentation and preservation.

Item Details:

Name: Flint Echinoid (likely Conulus sp.)

Type: Sea Urchin Fossil (Echinoidea)

Common Name: Shepherd’s Crown

Age: Cretaceous Period (~100–66 million years ago)

Geological Formation: Chalk

Location Found: Seaford Head, Sussex, UK

Scale Reference: Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm (please refer to photo for full sizing)

Certificate of Authenticity: Included

ACTUAL AS SEEN:

The image shows the exact specimen you will receive. Each fossil is carefully hand-selected and photographed to ensure quality and transparency.

Please Note:

Some fossils may be propped up for photography.

Colouration may vary slightly under different lighting or screens.

Sizes are approximate due to natural variations in shape.

Once sold, this listing will be updated with a new fossil and image.

100% Genuine – Professionally Prepared – Certificate of Authenticity Included

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Downs near Brighton, Sussex, UK

This listing features a well-preserved fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), an extinct heart-shaped sea urchin from the Cretaceous chalk deposits of the Downs near Brighton, Sussex, UK. A scientifically valuable and highly collectible specimen, perfect for fossil enthusiasts, collectors, and educational purposes.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct burrowing sea urchins that thrived during the Late Cretaceous period. These echinoids played a significant role in the study of marine paleoecology and biostratigraphy due to their well-defined stratigraphic distribution. Micraster cortestudinarium is recognized for its distinct heart shape and adaptations for burrowing in soft sedimentary environments.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Downs near Brighton, Sussex, UK

Size: Refer to listing photos for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with fine structural details visible

Why This Fossil is Special:

A high-quality example of Micraster cortestudinarium from the iconic Chalk deposits

Sourced from a well-known UK fossil locality near Brighton

Ideal for fossil displays, educational purposes, or research

Comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the photos is the exact specimen you will receive—no stock images used.

Buy with Confidence:

Authenticity Guaranteed – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully packed for safe shipping

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available

This Micraster cortestudinarium fossil is a fascinating piece of natural history, providing a glimpse into the marine ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous period. A perfect addition to any serious fossil collection.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

This listing is for a well-preserved fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), a heart-shaped sea urchin from the Late Cretaceous chalk deposits of Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK. This specimen is an excellent addition to any fossil collection and is ideal for display, education, or research.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct burrowing sea urchins that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. These echinoids are recognized for their heart-shaped form and specialized adaptations for burrowing in soft marine sediments. Micraster cortestudinarium is one of the most well-documented species, used in biostratigraphy to help date sedimentary rock layers.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Late Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

Size: Refer to listing photos for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with fine details clearly visible

Why This Fossil is Special:

A quality Micraster cortestudinarium fossil from the well-known Seven Sisters chalk deposits

Sourced from an iconic UK fossil locality

Ideal for fossil displays, educational use, or personal collections

Comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the most extensive ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the photos is the exact specimen you will receive—no stock images used.

Buy with Confidence:

Authenticity Guaranteed – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully packed for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

This listing is for a well-preserved fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), a heart-shaped sea urchin from the Late Cretaceous chalk deposits of Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK. This specimen is an excellent addition to any fossil collection and is ideal for display, education, or research.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct burrowing sea urchins that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. These echinoids are recognized for their heart-shaped form and specialized adaptations for burrowing in soft marine sediments. Micraster cortestudinarium is one of the most well-documented species, used in biostratigraphy to help date sedimentary rock layers.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Late Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

Size: Refer to listing photos for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with fine details clearly visible

Why This Fossil is Special:

A quality Micraster cortestudinarium fossil from the well-known Seven Sisters chalk deposits

Sourced from an iconic UK fossil locality

Ideal for fossil displays, educational use, or personal collections

Comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the most extensive ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the photos is the exact specimen you will receive—no stock images used.

Buy with Confidence:

Authenticity Guaranteed – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully packed for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Hope Gap, Kent, UK

This listing features a well-preserved fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), an extinct heart-shaped sea urchin from the Cretaceous chalk deposits of Hope Gap, Kent, UK. A scientifically valuable and highly collectible specimen, perfect for fossil enthusiasts, collectors, and educational purposes.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct burrowing sea urchins that thrived during the Late Cretaceous period. These echinoids played a significant role in the study of marine paleoecology and biostratigraphy due to their well-defined stratigraphic distribution. Micraster cortestudinarium is recognized for its distinct heart shape and adaptations for burrowing in soft sedimentary environments.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Hope Gap, Kent, UK

Size: Refer to listing photos for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with fine structural details visible

Why This Fossil is Special:

A quality example of Micraster cortestudinarium from the iconic Chalk deposits

Sourced from Hope Gap, a well-known UK fossil locality

Ideal for fossil displays, educational purposes, or research

Comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the photos is the exact specimen you will receive—no stock images used.

Buy with Confidence:

Authenticity Guaranteed – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully packed for safe shipping

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available

This Micraster cortestudinarium fossil is a fascinating piece of natural history, providing a glimpse into the marine ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous period. A perfect addition to any serious fossil collection.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

This listing is for a genuine fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), an extinct species of sea urchin from the Cretaceous period, found in the famous chalk cliffs of Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK. This specimen is well-preserved and is an excellent addition to any fossil collection.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct heart-shaped echinoids that lived in marine environments during the Late Cretaceous period. These echinoids were adapted for burrowing into the soft seabed and are commonly found in chalk deposits across Europe. Micraster cortestudinarium is a key zonal fossil, meaning it helps geologists date the rock layers in which it is found.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Seven Sisters, Sussex, UK

Size: Please refer to the listing photos with scale for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with distinct natural features

Why This Fossil is Special:

A scientifically significant specimen of Micraster cortestudinarium

Sourced from the renowned Seven Sisters chalk cliffs in Sussex, UK

A perfect specimen for display, research, or educational purposes

Comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the listing photos is the exact specimen you will receive. No stock images are used.

Buy with Confidence:

100% Authentic Specimens – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully wrapped for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available with professional handling

This Micraster cortestudinarium fossil is a remarkable specimen from the Cretaceous period, offering an opportunity to own a piece of prehistoric marine history. Ideal for collectors, educators, or anyone fascinated by ancient sea life.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster cortestudinarium) – Chalk, Cretaceous, Broadstairs, Kent, UK

This listing is for a genuine fossil echinoid (Micraster cortestudinarium), an extinct species of sea urchin from the Cretaceous period, found in the chalk formations of Broadstairs, Kent, UK. A fascinating and highly collectible specimen, this fossil is ideal for collectors, educators, and fossil enthusiasts interested in prehistoric marine life.

About Micraster cortestudinarium (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct heart-shaped echinoids that thrived in marine environments during the Late Cretaceous. These echinoids were well-adapted for burrowing into soft sediments and are commonly found in chalk deposits across Europe. Micraster cortestudinarium is a key zonal species, helping geologists date the rock layers in which they are found.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster cortestudinarium

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Chalk, Broadstairs, Kent, UK

Size: Please refer to the listing photos with scale for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with clear natural features

Why This Fossil is Special:

A scientifically significant specimen of Micraster cortestudinarium

Found in the classic chalk deposits of Kent, UK

Ideal for display, research, or education

Comes from the renowned Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The fossil shown in the listing photos is the exact specimen you will receive. No stock images are used.

Buy with Confidence:

100% Authentic Specimens – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully wrapped for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available with professional handling

This Micraster cortestudinarium fossil is an excellent addition to any fossil collection, perfect for display, research, or educational use. A rare opportunity to own a well-preserved echinoid from the Cretaceous period.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin: Micraster decepiens) – Middle Chalk, Cretaceous, Broadstairs, Kent, UK

This listing is for a genuine fossil echinoid (Micraster decepiens), a well-preserved specimen from the Middle Chalk deposits of Broadstairs, Kent, UK. This rare and scientifically significant sea urchin is an excellent addition to any fossil collection, offering insights into the marine ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous period.

About Micraster decepiens (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster is a genus of extinct echinoids (sea urchins) that thrived in Cretaceous seas, often found in chalk deposits. These heart-shaped echinoids were adapted for burrowing in marine sediments and are commonly used by paleontologists to study Cretaceous paleoecology. Micraster decepiens is distinguished by its unique morphology, making it a valuable find for collectors and researchers alike.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster decepiens

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Cretaceous

Formation/Location: Middle Chalk, Broadstairs, Kent, UK

Size: Please refer to the listing photos with scale for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved with fine structural details and natural features

Why This Fossil is Special:

A rare and scientifically significant Micraster decepiens specimen

From the renowned Middle Chalk deposits of Broadstairs, Kent

Ideal for fossil collectors, educators, and museum-quality displays

Comes from the prestigious Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world

100% Genuine Specimen with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The specimen shown in the listing photos is the exact fossil you will receive. No stock images are used.

Buy with Confidence:

100% Authentic Specimens – Professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully wrapped for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available with professional handling

This beautifully preserved Micraster decepiens fossil is a fascinating piece of natural history and a must-have for any fossil enthusiast. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary fossil echinoid.

[uk-fossils]

RARE Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin) Micraster luskei – Upper Cretaceous, Small Dole, West Sussex

This listing features a genuine fossil echinoid (Micraster luskei), an extinct species of heart urchin from the Upper Cretaceous period, discovered in Small Dole, West Sussex, UK. This well-preserved specimen is a remarkable example of prehistoric marine life and a must-have for any fossil collector.

About Micraster luskei (Fossil Echinoid)

Micraster luskei is a species of irregular sea urchin that thrived in the Late Cretaceous seas. These echinoids were well adapted for burrowing in soft seabed sediments, leaving behind an exceptional fossil record. Their distinct heart-shaped structure and intricate surface details make them an important species for understanding ancient marine ecosystems.

Fossil Details:

Scientific Name: Micraster luskei

Common Name: Fossil Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Geological Age: Upper Cretaceous (~100–66 million years ago)

Formation/Location: Small Dole, West Sussex, England

Size: See listing photos with scale for accurate dimensions

Condition: Well-preserved, displaying clear surface details

Why This Fossil is Special:

Authentic Micraster luskei echinoid from the famous Cretaceous deposits of West Sussex

A rare and scientifically significant specimen with well-defined features

Part of the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the most prestigious ammonite and fossil collections

100% authentic specimen supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity

What You See is What You Get

The exact fossil shown in the listing photos is the one you will receive. No stock images are used.

Buy with Confidence:

100% Genuine Specimens – All our fossils are professionally sourced, identified, and verified

Secure Packaging – Carefully packaged for safe delivery

Fast & Reliable Shipping – Worldwide shipping available with professional handling

This Micraster luskei fossil echinoid is an outstanding addition to any fossil collection, ideal for display, research, or as a unique gift for fossil enthusiasts. Don't miss out on owning a piece of Earth's prehistoric history!