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Are you looking for a small starter piece, or perhaps a fossil with more of a presence? Take your time to browse our current selection and choose the piece that suits your taste, budget and the space in your home.
Buying fossils: what should you look out for?
If you’re thinking of buying a fossil, look beyond just the species name. Also pay attention to the size, details, any natural fractures, finish and the overall appearance of the piece. An ammonite or orthoceras is popular as a decorative item, whilst a trilobite, shark’s tooth or dinosaur tooth appeals to many collectors. Decide in advance whether you’re looking for something to display in a display cabinet, on a shelf, in a practice room or as a special gift. That will make choosing much easier.
Popular types of fossils
Many visitors are looking specifically for a particular type of fossil. Depending on what’s currently available, this category might include, for example:
- ammonites – recognisable by their spiral shape and popular as decorative fossils
- trilobites – classic fossils for collectors of prehistoric marine life
- Megalodon teeth and other shark teeth – popular for their robust appearance
- dinosaur fossils, such as teeth or smaller remains – highly sought after by enthusiasts of large prehistoric animals
- orthoceras, petrified wood and fossilised plants – perfect for those who love natural shapes and textures
- mammoths and other Ice Age finds – notable for their link to recent prehistory
- stromatolite - one of the oldest fossils; of interest to collectors
- amber (fossilised resin) - highly sought-after for decorative and energy-related purposes
- septary - fossil-like rock with unique patterns; suitable as a decorative piece
As fossils are natural products, their colour, pattern, shape and size always vary from one specimen to another.
What makes a fossil special?
A fossil is a preserved remnant, imprint or structure of a plant or animal from the distant past. Some specimens are millions of years old and provide a very direct insight into what life on Earth was like. It is precisely this combination of natural beauty and history that makes fossils so appealing. You aren’t simply bringing an object into your home, but a tangible piece of Earth’s history.
Frequently asked questions about fossils
What’s a good choice if you’re buying a fossil for the first time?
For beginners, ammonites, orthoceras and smaller trilobites are often good choices. They are easily recognisable, decorative and usually reasonably priced. If you’re looking for something a bit more impressive, a shark’s tooth or a megalodon tooth is often a popular first purchase.
How old are fossils usually?
That varies greatly depending on the species. Some fossils are thousands of years old, whilst others are tens or hundreds of millions of years old. Ammonites, trilobites and dinosaur fossils are often finds from very different geological periods.
Are you allowed to buy fossils?
In principle, yes, but regulations can vary depending on the country, the site where the fossil was found and the type of fossil. That is why information on provenance is important, particularly in the case of rare or protected specimens. As a buyer, it is wise to look out for clear product information where available.
What’s the best way to preserve a fossil?
Fossils should ideally be kept dry, clean and out of direct sunlight. It is best to avoid significant fluctuations in temperature or humidity. For fragile items, use a stable surface and dust them off gently, without using harsh cleaning products.
Are fossils only of interest to collectors?
No, certainly not. Fossils are also a popular choice as decorative items, conversation-starters in the home or surgery, or as an original gift. A beautiful fossil looks just as good as part of an interior as it does in a collection.
How do you choose between an ammonite, a trilobite or a shark’s tooth?
Above all, look for what appeals to you. An ammonite is often graceful and rounded, a trilobite has a lot of detail, and a shark’s tooth looks powerful and rugged. If you’re in any doubt, it helps to first decide whether decorative appeal or a collector’s interest is most important to you.
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