Fossilized Cleoniceras ammonite - Cretaceous - Perfectly...

Polished fossil specimen with exceptional detail — This Cleoniceras ammonite specimen, originating from Madagascar, offers an extraordinary window into the Early Cretaceous, a geological era spanning roughly 100 to 65 million years ago. The piece has been carefully prepared to reveal the magnificent internal structure of the fossil, which has been preserved with surprising sharpness. The spiral form, typical of ammonites, is here enhanced by a polish that highlights its elegant curves and natural symmetry. The polished surface brings out the complex sutural lines, known as lobes and saddles, which form an intricate dendritic pattern on the shell. These unique shapes, resembling leaves or ferns, are a distinctive feature of ammonites, offering a fascinating glimpse into their complex internal anatomy. The warm colors, ranging from light brown to dark brown with orange hues and iridescent areas, are due to the presence of aragonite and pyrite, minerals that replaced and preserved the original shell over millions of years. Cleoniceras ammonites are particularly appreciated by both scholars and collectors for their beauty and the often excellent preservation they exhibit. Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, these fossils are of great scientific importance, providing valuable insights into marine biodiversity, paleoclimate, and Mesozoic geochronology. Each specimen tells a deep story about life on Earth and its transformations. This particular lot also features areas of the shell showing secondary crystallization, adding further depth and brilliance to the piece. The perfect preservation of the shell and the sharpness of the suture details make it a high-quality collectible, ideal for enriching a private collection, a museum, or as a refined decorative element in any environment. The irregularities and color variations observed are part of the natural formation and fossilization process of the specimen, testimony to its authenticity and geological history. Final Technical Data: Name: Ammonite Classification: Cleoniceras Geological period: Cretaceous Provenance: Madagascar Material: Aragonite and Pyrite (fossil) Finishing: Polished Dimensions: 100 x 80 x 25 mm Weight: 246 g Condition: Natural, excellent preservation Lot code: ZAR-239

Estimate:£126.95

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