Description
Douvilleiceras orbignyi Fossil Ammonite from France
This is a superb example of Douvilleiceras orbignyi, a fossil ammonite from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period. Found at Macheron, France, this ammonite dates to approximately 113–110 million years ago. It is a striking and scientifically important specimen that showcases the robust ornamentation characteristic of the Douvilleiceras genus.
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs display the actual ammonite you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube and rule squares provided for accurate sizing.
Geological Context and Age
The Lower Albian stage represents a critical interval in the Early Cretaceous, marked by widespread marine transgressions and a flourishing of ammonite diversity. During this time, the area now known as France was submerged under shallow epicontinental seas linked to the Tethys Ocean. These warm, nutrient-rich environments supported an abundance of cephalopods, molluscs, crustaceans, and other marine organisms.
The sediments of Macheron are well known for producing exceptionally preserved ammonites, including members of the genus Douvilleiceras, which serve as important index fossils for the Lower Albian. Their distribution across Europe and other continents makes them crucial in refining the global stratigraphic framework of the Early Cretaceous.
Morphology and Distinctive Features
Douvilleiceras orbignyi belongs to the family Douvilleiceratidae, within the superfamily Desmoceratoidea of the order Ammonitida. Its shell is easily recognisable for its robust, evolute form, with exposed inner whorls and heavy ornamentation. The ribs are coarse and strong, frequently bearing tubercles (knob-like projections) that give the ammonite a rugged, chain-like appearance.
The venter (outer rim of the shell) is typically broad, with ribs that sweep across it in bold arcs. These distinctive features not only make Douvilleiceras orbignyi an excellent display piece but also aid palaeontologists in species identification and stratigraphic correlation.
Scientific Importance
As a well-established index fossil of the Lower Albian, Douvilleiceras orbignyi plays an essential role in dating and correlating sedimentary deposits. Its easily recognisable morphology and widespread geographic distribution mean that it is used by geologists worldwide as a reference species.
The shell features also provide insight into ammonite adaptation and evolution. The heavy ribbing and tuberculation are thought to have strengthened the shell against predation and environmental stresses, while also contributing to hydrodynamic performance in the Cretaceous seas.
Collector and Display Value
This Douvilleiceras orbignyi ammonite fossil from Macheron, France is both scientifically important and visually striking. Its bold ribbing and nodular ornamentation give it strong display appeal, while its role as a biostratigraphic marker ensures enduring scientific value.
Collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or European palaeontology will find this specimen to be an exceptional addition to their collection. It also serves as a fascinating educational piece, clearly illustrating the distinctive morphology of an iconic Early Cretaceous ammonite.
Your Guarantee of Authenticity
- 100% genuine Douvilleiceras orbignyi ammonite fossil
- Geological age: Lower Albian stage, Early Cretaceous (approx. 113–110 million years ago)
- Location: Macheron, France
- Family: Douvilleiceratidae, Order: Ammonitida
- Distinctive features: robust ribs, tuberculate ornamentation, evolute shell
- Exact specimen shown in the photographs (not a stock image)
- Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Scale cube and rule squares = 1 cm for accurate size reference
This Douvilleiceras orbignyi ammonite fossil combines scientific importance with display quality, making it a superb addition to any serious fossil collection.
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