I think this is a vertebral epiphysis from a cetacean. It was found on the North Carolina coast. Can anyone help ID it?

[Duroo]

This was found by my brother on the coast of North Carolina.

The closest thing I can figure is that it is a cetacean vertebral epiphysis.

 

It is roughly bilaterally symmetrical when viewed from the flat side. It is approximately 7 inches wide x 6 inches tall x 2 inches thick.

There is one small spot along one edge (detailed below) where it looks like the original surface is preserved.

 

The rest has been weathered away, leaving a very porous underneath. Is this from a whale, and if not, from what? Thanks!

 

 

[Fossildude19]

I think this is a very worn cetacean vertebra, not just an epiphysis.

[Fin Lover]

I could absolutely be wrong, but I'm not seeing a vert here (or an epiphysis).

 

Edited 23 hours ago by Fin Lover

[ted coulianos]

Have to agree with Fin Lover; probably not a  vert and too thick for an epiphysial disk. Most likely just a suggestive discoidal-shaped waterworn stone.

[Carl]

I agree with cetacean vert. It's very beat up but that first photo looks like bone to me.

[Shellseeker]

I think not a Cetacean Epiphysis.  In my experience they are thin.

 

I did find a "fat" Epiphysis 7 years ago.  It is described in this thread.  I believe that many / most land mammals might have an Epiphysis.    The Epiphysis fuses to the Vertebra as a mammal transitions to adulthood... In humans , it can take 10-25 years depending on the specific bone.. 

The Epiphysis from this thread was never identified.. It is the only example I have....

 

 

[Duroo]

Fascinating!! Thank you all for the replies!

 

It is definitely bone, or at the very least biological. Not a stone.

 

Beyond that though I can't say. The symmetry makes me think it is something vertebral, whether a full vert or otherwise. I do wonder though if it is an epiphysis from a different bone??

 

I guess it could in some way be like a weird type of sponge or something else marine. But I am 99% sure it is bone.

 

Anyway, keep any ideas coming, thanks again!

[Sonickmonx]

Hey @Duroo where in NC was this found?  Holden?