Adorable Mini Elrathia kingii Trilobites in Matrix from Millard, Utah

Trilobites, meaning "three lobes," are an extinct group of marine arthropods that lived during the early Cambrian through the late Permian periods. They first entered the fossil record around 520 million years ago and flourished until the Permian extinction event around 250 million years ago. Although trilobites are a highly diversified (over 22,000 species have been officially described), even early on in the fossil record, they are all characterized by an easily-recognizable exoskeleton that fossilized easily.

Elrathia kingii is perhaps the most recognizable trilobite, especially to us here in the US where they are primarily found, mostly in Utah. Their ability to live in low-oxygen environments mixed with the usual trilobite exoskeleton means that they were much more likely to fossilize than just about any other marine wildlife during the time.

Photography

Although we always strive to provide clear, accurate images of our crystals and other products, we photograph under professional lighting, which is meant to mimic sunlight. If you get your crystal and think it looks a little different under low or artificial light, try checking it out again in sunlight!

Our crystals are one-of-a-kind art, created by nature.

No two pieces are the same, and there is no such thing as "perfection" in nature.

When it comes to our hand-carved items, remember that artists work with and around imperfections, druzy pockets, and other natural variations to bring each carving out of a piece of natural stone.

We consider these imperfections to be one of the most wonderful parts of crystal collecting, and we invite you to embrace each carving's uniqueness!

We will always try to portray each piece honestly, so be sure to look closely at our images and videos to ensure you know what to expect.

Metaphysical Information

Metaphysical information mentioned anywhere by The Triceratory should not be considered medical advice and is not meant to be used in place of needed medical treatment.