Fossilized Sand Dollar

Fossilized sand dollars are a highly flattened form of urchin. They range in size up to about four inches and live buried in the sand just below the low tide line. They first appeared in the fossil record during the Paleocene, about 60 million years ago and are still alive today. The are basically circular in shape, with some having flattened or indented sides. Living, they are covered with velvety looking spines that they use to move. The most diagnostic indicator of fossil sand dollars is the five ovate forms on the top side of the skeleton. These are part of the respiratory system and leave an easily identified “flower” on the skeleton. These sand dollars are available in two sizes. Approximately 2" and 3". Due to the unique nature of natural stones, the exact color, shape and size may vary.   *Due to differences in light conditions and the complex nature of natural stones, the color of some stones may vary from their photographic image. Best efforts are made to capture the stones in their truest nature.