Crinoid

Ever heard of a crinoid?  Well, the fossil crinoid is a mineralization of an animal which, because if its plant-like appearance, was called the sea lily.  Related to the starfish, crinoids live in the ocean that covered Missouri more than 250 million years ago. While alive, crinoids had stem-like attachments to the sea floor.  The attachments were made of round mineral disks stacked together.  Some had star-shaped central openings.  Preserved as fossils, these disks were used by Native Americans for making beads.  Visit our Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology to see crinoids and other fossils, rock, minerals and other geologic wonders.  We are located at 111 Fairgrounds Road in Rolla.  Stop by and take a self-guided tour.  Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays.  Admission is always free.  –Joe