Catulloceras dumortieri Ammonite Fossil Upper Toarcian Jurassic Caen France Genuine Certified

Description

Authentic Catulloceras dumortieri Ammonite Fossil

Offered here is a rare and genuine Catulloceras dumortieri ammonite fossil from the Upper Toarcian stage of the Jurassic period, sourced from Caen, France. This beautifully preserved specimen represents a striking example of an ammonite species known for its elegant coiling and detailed ribbing. Each fossil is carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity, and this piece comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The exact specimen shown in the photographs is the one you will receive, with a scale cube of 1cm included in the images for accurate size reference.

Geological Context and Age

The fossil originates from the Upper Toarcian stage of the Early Jurassic, dating to around 180 to 174 million years ago. During this period, the region of present-day Caen in northern France was submerged beneath warm shallow seas. These marine conditions allowed for the proliferation of ammonites and other marine organisms, which were preserved in fine sedimentary deposits. The Toarcian stage is particularly well known for its exceptional ammonite diversity, making fossils from this interval highly valuable both scientifically and for private collections.

Species Identification and Morphology

Catulloceras dumortieri belongs to the family Graphoceratidae, within the superfamily Hildoceratoidea, order Ammonitida. This ammonite is recognised for its moderately involute shell, distinctive ribbing, and compressed whorls. The ribbing pattern often bifurcates as it crosses the shell flanks, giving the fossil a highly textured and visually appealing surface. These morphological features not only define the species but also provide important diagnostic characteristics for paleontologists studying Jurassic ammonites.

Like other ammonites, C. dumortieri was a marine cephalopod related to modern squid and octopuses. Its chambered shell functioned as a buoyancy aid, allowing the animal to regulate its position in the water while hunting smaller marine prey. The intricate design of its shell reflects both functional adaptation and evolutionary development during the Jurassic seas.

Scientific Importance and Collecting Value

Ammonites such as Catulloceras dumortieri serve as valuable index fossils due to their wide geographic distribution and rapid evolutionary turnover. They are frequently used in biostratigraphy to correlate rock layers across different regions. The Upper Toarcian deposits of France are particularly important in this regard, with Catulloceras species playing a role in defining specific ammonite biozones. For collectors, this specimen offers not only aesthetic appeal but also a direct link to a well-documented chapter in Earth’s geological history.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was recovered from Caen, France, a locality long recognised for its rich fossiliferous deposits. Each fossil is hand-selected to ensure both quality and authenticity, making it an ideal piece for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts. All of our specimens are guaranteed genuine and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Ideal for Display and Education

This ammonite fossil is perfectly suited for display in a personal collection, museum setting, or educational environment. Its detailed preservation highlights the beauty of natural history, making it a captivating piece to showcase. With the inclusion of a scale cube in the photos, you can see its full dimensions and assess its size accurately before purchase.

This Catulloceras dumortieri ammonite fossil combines scientific significance, aesthetic beauty, and guaranteed authenticity, making it an exceptional specimen from the Jurassic seas of France.