Mined from: White River Badlands, White River Group/Formation, South Dakota, U.S.A.

Era: Cenozoic
Geological Age: 23–34 mya

Description: This one of a kind tortoise fossil specimen from the United States features a large, unworked fossilized shell section preserved in a pale tan to beige sedimentary matrix. The most visible portion shows a rounded, domed tortoise carapace with natural cracking, plate-like scute impressions, and weathered shell texture still present across the surface. The surrounding matrix has soft grey, cream, and pinkish-tan tones, giving the piece an authentic field-collected appearance and leaving the fossil partially concealed for further preparation.

Fossil tortoise's durable shells fossilize well, making them highly collectible vertebrate fossils that can preserve recognizable anatomical detail and prehistoric character. This specimen is especially appealing as an unprepared fossil project because the tortoise shell remains partly exposed in its original matrix, offering hobbyists the opportunity to carefully uncover, clean, and stabilize more of the fossil through proper preparation techniques.

This piece is best suited for collectors, fossil preparation hobbyists, educational use, or display as a natural field specimen. Its partially exposed surface, surrounding host rock, and unworked condition make it a rewarding preparation candidate for those interested in hands-on fossil work, while still retaining the rugged character of a genuine fossil in matrix.

Quantity: 1pc

With this product, you will get the actual stone in the photograph. We do what we can to buy good quality products and price them honestly. The rocks may differ from the photos, but we hope we do them justice.