Description
Another fine example of a textbook Olenellus gilberti on an elongated matrix piece. This textbook example of the species measures 4.5 cm and is outlined with crisp, textbook features. The trilobite has the sought after extra long telson (tail spine). Orange and darker bursts are spread across the elongated matrix. The colors are due to high amounts of iron and aluminum in the Combined Metals Member rocks. A cephalon of another Olenellus is also present on the plate along with linear growths of iron/manganese dendrites. Awesome specimen! Olenellus are amongst the earliest complex life forms in the fossil record. Since this trilobite appeared on the planet, it has made over two complete revolutions around our galaxy. The aesthetics of this piece are outstanding
*A side note-Olenellus trilobites of this quality are extremely rare. The specimens offered here were collected from the 1980’s through the early 2000’s and represent the top 1%.
Age: Lower Cambrian
Species Name: Olenellus gilberti
Order / Family: Redlichiida / Olenellidae
Locality: Lincoln County, Nevada
Formation: Pioche Shale
