Modern Gastropod Shell (often mistaken for 'Horn Coral' fossils)
Likely Goniobasis cf. livescens (Elimia livescens) • Recent biological specimen (Modern shell), non-fossil. Broad classification: Invertebrate Gastropod
Geological Period
Holocene (Recent)
Estimated Age
0 to 100 years old
Preservation Type
Original calcitic/aragonitic biological material. No mineral replacement or permineralization has occurred; the luster and pigment are modern.
Condition Assessment
Excellent (biological); contains original color and proteinaceous layers. Note: minor wear on the apex due to wave action.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Sorbeoconcha, Family: Pleuroceridae or similar
Morphological Description
High-spired, conical dextral shell with roughly 6-8 whorls. Features distinct horizontal banding including creamy white and reddish-brown pigments. The aperture is oval with a slightly thickened outer lip. Smooth surface texture without heavy ribbing.
Rock Matrix
None. The specimen is clean of matrix, indicative of being a beach-found shell rather than an excavated fossil.
Formation & Location
Found at Sterling State Park, Michigan (Lake Erie shoreline). Common in the Great Lakes basin.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 - 2.5 cm in length, within the standard adult size range for Great Lakes Elimia species.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$0.00 - $1.00 (Minimal monetary value as it is a common modern shell)
Auction Estimate
N/A (Not suitable for natural history auctions)
Rarity Assessment
Common; globally abundant in freshwater environments of the Midwestern United States.
Scientific Significance
While not a fossil, it provides ecological data on current freshwater mollusk populations in the Great Lakes and serves as an important comparison for Paleozoic snails often found in Michigan.
Preparation Recommendations
Rinse in fresh water to remove salts. No specialized paleontological preparation required. Store in a dry container.
Notable Features
Vibrant color banding and high-quality luster suggest this was a recently living organism rather than a sub-fossil or ancient specimen.
Notes
Found at Sterling State Park in Michigan