Ediacaran Dickinsonia-like Impression
cf. Dickinsonia costata • Impression fossil of a soft-bodied Ediacaran organism; invertebrate metazoan.
Geological Period
Ediacaran Period (late Neoproterozoic Erathem)
Estimated Age
558 to 550 million years
Preservation Type
External mold/Impression on the sole of a bedding plane; typical of 'Ediacara-style' preservation in siliciclastic sediments.
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The relief is somewhat weathered or masked by tectonic deformation and surface oxidation, but the primary symmetrical segmented structure remains visible.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Proarticulata (extinct); Class: Dipleurozoa; Family: Dickinsoniidae; Genus: Dickinsonia
Morphological Description
Oval-shaped, bilaterally symmetrical body with a segmented or 'quilted' appearance. Central axis with branching rib-like structures (isomers) that are slightly offset from each other, suggesting glide symmetry.
Rock Matrix
Ferruginous (iron-rich) siltstone or fine-grained sandstone with a distinctive reddish-brown ochre patina.
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Rawnsley Quartzite of the Flinders Ranges (South Australia) or the Mogilev Formation (Podolia, Ukraine).
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 5-8 cm in length; consistent with juvenile to mid-sized specimens of this genus.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
250 USD - 600 USD
Auction Estimate
400 USD - 800 USD
Rarity Assessment
Uncommon. While iconic, identifiable Dickinsonia specimens from well-known localities are highly regulated and restricted for export in certain regions.
Scientific Significance
Crucial for understanding the earliest evolution of multicellular life; represents some of the first animals and provides evidence for early bilateral symmetry.
Preparation Recommendations
Mechanical cleaning using a soft brush is sufficient. Conservation should focus on stabilizing the iron-rich matrix to prevent further oxidation; avoid acids.
Notable Features
Exhibits 'glide symmetry' where the left and right segments are slightly staggered rather than mirrored, a diagnostic hallmark of the Proarticulata phylum.