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The Tectonic Crab: Prehistoric Preservation in the Round
This is a rare and fascinating full-body crab fossil preserved within a natural stone concretion. Recovered from the high-uplift zones of the Seattle Fault Line (Blakeley Formation), this 52-gram specimen is a remarkable \"snapshot\" of ancient marine life.
The Geology:
Unlike typical flat fossils, this crab is preserved in a \"rolled\" or \"balled\" position, likely due to a sudden, catastrophic burial event caused by tectonic activity. The specimen was encased in a mineral concretion that protected it for millions of years. Because it has been weathered naturally, there is no outer crust—leaving the mineralized fossil structure visible on the surface.
Key Features:
• Full Body \"Balled\" Form: The crab is curled in a natural defensive or burial posture, showing the rounded 3D anatomy of the specimen.
• Electric Blue UV Glow: Under 365nm Long-Wave UV, the mineralization within the crab lights up in a striking electric blue. The glow effectively \"maps out\" the fossilized anatomy hidden within the stone.
• Compact & Solid: Weighing 52 Grams, this is a perfect \"pocket\" or desk specimen that feels smooth and sturdy in the hand.
• Tectonic Origin: A piece of Washington state history, forged by the same seismic forces that shaped the Puget Sound.