rocks and fossils
a big event like a massive extinction ends an era.
The famous scientist of the Hellenistic era was Archimedes.
Scientists determine when one era ends by looking at significant geological, climatic, or biological events that mark a distinct change in the earth's history. These events are usually reflected in the rock record or fossil record and help to establish boundaries between different geological eras.
The Hellenistic period begins in 323 with the death of Alexander the Great and ends with the battle of Actio in 31 BC
Precambrian
It was science that named and decided on the era's in the first place, so they determine them by matching what another scientist has said is one era or another. Usually era's are defined by some cataclism.
2500 m
From the PALEOZOIC ERA.
It is often called the "Age of the Mammals"
The Edge of Night (soap opera) ERA (detergent)
Earrings :D