The ammonite, a type of mollusk, is an unusually large find with a 0.3-metre diameter
A 9-year-old boy has found a fossil from the Jurassic period on a beach in South Wales.
Eli found the 200-million-year-old artifact while out with his family at Llantwit Major beach in Vale of Glamorgan, reports BBC.
While the area is well-known for its fossils, the ammonite, a type of mollusk, is an unusually large find with a 0.3-metre diameter and is well-preserved.
Eli’s father, Glen Morris, told Sky News that it was the family’s first visit to the beach and quickly became a walk to remember.
The shelled cephalopods went extinct roughly 66 million years ago and can be found around the world.
“Growing up Eli has always been interested in all rock formations and unique looking items,” Morris said, adding that the larger fossil remains at the site but Eli pocketed some smaller items to bring home and display.
“I was a bit of a nerd growing up and liked dinosaurs and rocks and the same things he’s into to be honest and I think I’ve passed it onto him,” Morris told BBC.
Eli has been congratulated on his discovery by The National History Museum in London, who told him to “keep up the good work.”
Before going extinct, ammonites inhabited the planet for more than 300 million years, nearly twice as long as dinosaurs.
Relatives of modern-day squid, octopus and cuttlefish, a Canadian ammonite fossil measuring 0.6 meters in diameter is currently on display at the American Museum of Natural History.
Discovered in Alberta, the 80-million-year-old specimen showcases a vibrant-coloured fossilized shell that is exclusive to the area. The rainbow-like iridescence is created by light reflecting off layers within the fossil, producing an effect similar to that of oil on water.
Last year, ammolite was designated as the official gemstone of Alberta. “A beautiful gem, ammolite is as unique as Alberta’s identity and a part of our shared heritage,” wrote Ron Orr, the former Minister of Culture who tabled the bill.
The coiled fossils have long been of interest in palaeontology and beyond. In medieval Europe, ammonites were known as “snakestones” and were believed to have healing properties that could cure snakebites and other venomous toxins.
As for Eli, while his interest in fossils continues, he has career aspirations in another field.
