This is a northern relative of the Forsterian-Rossian gemmata, differing in sculptural detail. Gemmata has close-spaced spirals developed into prominent transversely oval gemmules, spreading across broadly rounded axials, but in barricrensis the sculpture is latticed by more distant spirals and narrower, flatter axials enclosing rectangular interspaces. Also the axials are decidedly arcuate on the body-whorl in barrierensis and there is a broader concavity between the subsutural cord and the next below. In gemmata the axials are more vertical and the subsutural sulcus is no wider than the other interspaces. Spiral cords 4-5 on spire whorls, 18 on body-whorl. Axials 18-19 per whorl. There are two weak pillar plications.
Height, 7 mm.; diameter, 3 mm. (Holotype). Holotype in writer's collection, Auckland Museum. Locality: Off Little Barrier Island in 20 fathoms.