Epileymeriella hitzeli Iridescent Ammonite Fossil Lower Albian Cretaceous Russia COA

Description

Genuine Epileymeriella hitzeli Iridescent Ammonite Fossil from Russia

This listing offers a rare and beautifully iridescent Epileymeriella hitzeli ammonite fossil, originating from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous period and discovered in Russia. Dating back approximately 113–110 million years, this specimen displays the remarkable preservation and natural shell brilliance that makes ammonites from this region especially prized. The fossil is the exact one pictured, and it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing it as a 100% genuine specimen. A 1 cm scale cube is included in the photographs for precise size reference.

Geological Age and Origin

The fossil belongs to the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous, a time when vast epicontinental seas covered large parts of Eurasia. These seas created rich marine ecosystems that supported ammonites and many other marine invertebrates. The Russian deposits where Epileymeriella hitzeli specimens are found are particularly noted for their fine sedimentary preservation, which allowed delicate shell structures and even iridescent nacre to survive over millions of years.

The Lower Albian is an important stage in ammonite biostratigraphy, with numerous species acting as marker fossils. Ammonites such as E. hitzeli help geologists establish correlations between rock layers across Europe and beyond, making them scientifically valuable as well as aesthetically captivating.

Scientific Classification

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Species: Epileymeriella hitzeli
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitaceae
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Geological Stage: Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous (~113–110 million years ago)
• Locality: Russia

Distinctive Morphology and Iridescence

The genus Epileymeriella is characterised by its intricate ornamentation and striking shell form. This specimen demonstrates:

• Strong ribbing across the whorls, accentuating the ammonite’s coiling pattern.
• Involute shell structure, with whorls embracing tightly around the inner coils.
• Natural ventrolateral tubercles and nodes enhancing the shell’s texture.
• Spectacular iridescence, a shimmering rainbow-like effect produced by the fossilised nacre of the shell, visible under direct light.

The iridescence is not only visually captivating but also rare in ammonite preservation, making this specimen particularly desirable for collectors.

Paleoecology and Depositional Environment

Ammonites such as Epileymeriella hitzeli lived as nektonic predators, actively swimming in Cretaceous seas and feeding on smaller organisms. Their streamlined shells made them agile hunters, while their chambered structure provided buoyancy control. The Russian Albian deposits represent marine shelf environments where fine sediments quickly covered and preserved ammonite shells after death, resulting in the excellent fossilisation seen here.

The preservation of iridescent nacre suggests that this fossil was buried in conditions with limited oxygen, reducing decay and mineral alteration. As a result, the shell’s natural mother-of-pearl sheen survived, adding to the fossil’s beauty and scientific importance.

Collector and Display Value

This Epileymeriella hitzeli ammonite fossil is a superb example of Cretaceous marine life and an exquisite collector’s piece. Its natural iridescence, combined with its scientific significance as an Albian ammonite, makes it highly sought after by both private collectors and academic institutions.

Fossils from Russia with this level of preservation are increasingly rare, and the striking colour play of this specimen ensures it stands out in any collection or display. Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, it is both an investment in natural history and a unique piece of Earth’s geological heritage.

Key Details

• Species: Epileymeriella hitzeli
• Age: Lower Albian Stage, Early Cretaceous (~113–110 million years old)
• Location: Russia
• Features: Strong ribbing, involute shell, ventrolateral tubercles, iridescent nacre
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact Specimen: Photographs show the actual fossil you will receive
• Scale Reference: 1 cm cube included in photos for precise measurement

This rare, iridescent Epileymeriella hitzeli ammonite fossil from Russia is an outstanding example of Cretaceous paleontology and a remarkable addition to any fossil or natural history collection.