Double Hollardops mesocristata A Grade Fossil Trilobites Timrhanrhart Formation Devonian Morocco Genuine Specimens with COA

Description

Authentic Double Hollardops mesocristata Trilobite Fossils – Morocco

This listing offers a rare and striking double Hollardops mesocristata trilobite fossil, graded A for its excellent preservation. It comes from the Timrhanrhart Formation, Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian, El Ahhsr, Foum Zguid, Morocco. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, displayed with a 1cm scale cube for accurate sizing. Each of our fossils is guaranteed authentic and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring both scientific and collectible value.

These trilobites have been expertly prepared by a trusted Moroccan specialist, whose decades of skill and craftsmanship ensure the delicate details are beautifully revealed. The ethical preparation process provides fair income for local families while preserving the natural integrity of each fossil. Our approach ensures that all specimens are sourced responsibly, handled with care, and prepared with the safety of collectors and preparers in mind.

Geological Context – Timrhanrhart Formation

The Timrhanrhart Formation is one of Morocco’s most important fossil-bearing layers, dating back to the Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian (approx. 393–388 million years ago). This formation was deposited in warm, shallow marine environments, where coral reefs, brachiopods, ammonoids, and trilobites flourished.

The El Ahhsr site near Foum Zguid is especially renowned for producing complete and finely preserved trilobites. The fine-grained limestones of this formation captured the three-dimensional details of marine arthropods, allowing for extraordinary fossils such as this double Hollardops specimen.

The Trilobite – Hollardops mesocristata

Hollardops mesocristata is a member of the order Phacopida and the family Asteropygidae. Known for its large crescent-shaped eyes and finely segmented body, Hollardops is one of the most elegant and recognisable trilobites from Morocco. Its compound eyes, composed of hundreds of calcite lenses, represent one of the most advanced visual systems of the Paleozoic era.

This species is characterised by its broad, elongated cephalon, well-developed glabella, and detailed thoracic and pygidial segmentation. The double specimen offered here is particularly rare and collectible, showing two individuals preserved together, providing unique insights into the paleoecology of these Devonian seas.

Morphological Features of the Double Specimen

This A-grade fossil displays:

• Two articulated trilobites preserved side by side in natural three-dimensional relief.
• Compound eyes with finely detailed calcite lenses.
• Cephalon with raised glabella and clear sutures on both individuals.
• Thoracic segments preserved in full articulation with natural curvature.
• Well-formed pygidia (tail shields) showing clear segmentation.
• Exquisite preparation work, revealing intricate details without over-polishing.

These features highlight the biological sophistication of Hollardops trilobites while also showcasing the artistry of skilled Moroccan fossil preparation.

Scientific and Collectible Significance

Hollardops mesocristata fossils are admired both for their aesthetic appeal and their scientific importance. As representatives of Devonian biodiversity, they provide crucial insights into trilobite evolution, visual adaptations, and marine ecosystems during a time of rapid biological diversification. Double specimens are especially valued, as they are less common and may represent natural associations in life or burial.

For collectors, this fossil offers an outstanding opportunity to own a rare and ethically prepared double trilobite from one of the world’s most celebrated fossil localities. Its preservation quality, paired with expert preparation, makes it a true centrepiece specimen.

Key Details of this Specimen

• Species: Hollardops mesocristata (Phacopid Trilobite)
• Origin: Timrhanrhart Formation, El Ahhsr, Foum Zguid, Morocco
• Age: Middle Devonian, Eifelian Stage (~393–388 million years ago)
• Fossil Type: Double trilobite specimen (A-grade preservation)
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossils with Certificate of Authenticity
• Preparation: Expertly prepared by a skilled Moroccan specialist
• Exact Fossil: The specimen photographed is the one you will receive
• Sizing: Please see photographs with 1cm scale cube for accurate measurements

This exceptional double Hollardops mesocristata fossil trilobite is both scientifically significant and visually striking, making it an outstanding addition to any serious fossil collection.