News

New Ichthyosaur species found by Stone treasures.

This rare fossil of a prehistoric marine reptile has recently been handed over to The National Museums of Scotland for further investigation to determine

Whether this ichthyosaur is a newly discovered species.

This find is possibly a newly discovered Ichthyosaur species of a “rare reptile” which was found on the Isle of Skye. as the Edwinstowe owner shared “pride” in contributing to research and science.

Mark, who found the specimen in 1999, said: “In February 1999 while walking along the beach of Bearraig Bay at low tide, I noticed what appeared to be bone fragments in two large blocks washed out of faulted boulders.

“There were also a few pieces of similar smaller rock close by. They looked as if they had all fallen out from the shale – a previous storm had lifted shale including large blocks forward onto the beach.

“The larger blocks were at least 20 tons. Due to the size of the boulders these were left on the beach.”

The National Museums of Scotland have since collected the specimen – which may indicate a new species of Ichthyosaur.

Mark said he was “honoured" to pass over the specimen to the National Museums of Scotland to be researched and put on display.

He said: “The specimen was found on the land owned by Clan Donald but they have agreed to let the National Museums of Scotland have the specimen and a copy will be produced for the Isle of Skye Museum.

“It was also agreed by ourselves and the museum that the specimen returns to Scotland as it is unique and research will now follow to ascertain if it is a new species. We are proud to contribute to research and science.”

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Welcome to The Peak Lapidary and Mineral Society

The Bakewell Rock Exchange

DATE:14th & 15th October2023 (dates for 2024 12th & 13th October)

VENUE: Lady Manners School, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1JA.

The Bakewell Rock Exchange is recognized internationally as the UK’s best loved mineral show, with dealers from around the UK and Europe congregating in the heart of England’s Peak District National Park. The show is organized by the Peak Lapidary and Mineral Society and is now in its 39th year.

With more than 70 different dealers exhibiting a huge variety of rocks, minerals, fossils and gemstones, there is something for everyone, from the specialist to the family day out. Read a review.

Opening times: Saturday 10.00 – 5.00 and Sunday 10.00 – 4.30.

Admission: £3.00 per day or £5.00 for both days.

Saturday only: £10 early entry ticket (2-days) allows entry from 9.00!

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