Is this phacops rana trilobite fake?

[laetifico]

Hi all, I just got back from a Gem and Mineral show. I got some great trilobites, in particular this one. But now I am concerned it is a fake. I paid $40 and it seems too good to be true, but I don't know much. The trilobite itself is about 5 inches or 14 cm long. Any thoughts?

[LordTrilobite]

I have to agree. It looks fake. There seems to be a lack of detail and it has a kind of smudged look. There is no layering or overlap between the individual segments.

 

 

BUT! There might be some hope. The tail end looks like it might be real. Could you post some photos of the back end? It might be a partial trilobite that has the missing parts restored.

[laetifico]

Thank you for your reply! Even if fake, it is a lesson for me - and it will make a cool paperweight at work. I specifically asked the seller if it was real. ;( Anyway, here is a pic of the back end. 

[LordTrilobite]

Yup, I think the tail might be real.

[laetifico]

Thank you - that makes me feel better. I appreciate your responses!

[aplomado]

You can get really ohio trilobites in good condition for cheaper than that (though small)... you might want to look for your next specimen among them.

[RJB]

Doesn't look good.   A good way to learn though.  

 

RB