Fossil Discovery Boxes – A Gift for Young Explorers (and Adults Too!)
Fossil Discovery Boxes – A Gift for Young Explorers (and Adults Too!)
Having been a Mum of two not-so-little treasure hunters—and an adult gem and fossil nerd myself since childhood—I can tell you how much joy goes into discovering the wonders of the natural world. That’s why I had so much fun putting together these little Fossil Discovery Boxes for Christmas! These are also perfect for birthdays, for yourself or 'Just because'.
Packed into a compact, sturdy box, each set is a tiny treasure trove designed to spark curiosity and imagination. While they’re perfect for older children (ages 6+), they’re also great for adults who love geology, palaeontology, or just marvel at the incredible stories hidden in stones. I personally recommend them for ages 6 and up, as some of the fossils are small and delicate.
For an extra special gift, you could pair the Discovery Box with a larger fossil, like an Orthoceras, or a chunk of sparkling amethyst—after all, it’s all about celebrating Earth science!
Your Fossil Discovery Box
Each Christmas Discovery Box contains four real fossils, each millions of years old, each a unique piece of Earth’s history. No two boxes are alike!
Inside, you’ll find:
🪸 Crinoid Fossil – “Sea Lily” (Morocco)
Crinoids were ancient sea creatures that looked like underwater flowers, with feathery arms and a long stem anchored to the sea floor. These fossils are around 450 million years old, dating back long before the dinosaurs. The circular segments you see are pieces of the stem. Found near Erfoud, Morocco—a world-famous fossil region.
🐚 Gastropod Fossil
This fossil was once a sea snail shell, later replaced by agate over millions of years in a process called silicification, where minerals slowly replace the original shell. The result? Beautiful patterns and colours that showcase nature’s artistry.
🐚 Brachiopod Fossil (Rhynchonellida)
Often mistaken for clams, brachiopods are a completely different group of ancient ocean creatures. Their ribbed shells and perfect symmetry make them a favourite among fossil enthusiasts. These fossils are hundreds of millions of years old and help scientists understand ancient sea beds.
🦈 Shark Tooth Fossil (Florida, USA)
Sharks constantly shed and regrow their teeth, leaving millions to settle on ancient sea floors and fossilise over time. These teeth are usually 5–20 million years old, from sharks that lived long before humans appeared. Fossilised shark teeth are strong, durable, and a thrilling highlight of any collection.
Caring for Your Fossils
Keep them dry and out of direct sunlight
Handle gently—some fossils are more fragile than they appear
Display them in a safe place to enjoy and learn from
✨ A Tiny Piece of Deep Time
Each fossil in this box is a window into Earth’s ancient past. Whether you’re a collector, a student, or a curious explorer, may this set ignite your imagination and sense of wonder.
Thank you for supporting our small family shop, Blissful Things, based in Pahoia, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
🌿 Crystals • Fossils • Natural Treasures
