From the gemological collection of the American Museum of Natural History (New York).

Iridescent jewel,

Multicoloured wheel,

What wonders did you see

In your aquatic home

A half billion years ago?

Vast schools of shelled minds,

Thousands of eyes

Scanning the waters for prey,

Thousands of arms

Reaching into the darkness

Seeking sustenance or mate.

Named for a sun god,

Did you play in the shoals

Or patrol the inky depths

Of the world yet young?

We remember you,

Museums commemorate you,

And yet you are

And ever shall be

A stranger to us.