Fossil Ammonite Douvilleiceras mammillatum Lower Albian Cretaceous France Genuine Specimen

Description

Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Douvilleiceras mammillatum

This listing is for a beautifully preserved Fossil Ammonite of the species Douvilleiceras mammillatum, an iconic ammonite from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, approximately 113–110 million years ago. This particular specimen was discovered in France, a locality world-renowned for its Lower Cretaceous marine deposits. The fossil offered here is the exact piece shown in the photographs, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference.

Species Overview – Douvilleiceras mammillatum

Douvilleiceras mammillatum is one of the most distinctive ammonites of the Early Cretaceous and serves as the index fossil for the base of the Albian stage. Belonging to the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and Family Douvilleiceratidae, this ammonite is characterised by its strong ribbing, tuberculate ornamentation, and relatively evolute shell coiling. The ribs radiate across the whorls with rounded tubercles that create a bold and easily recognisable morphology. These distinctive features make Douvilleiceras mammillatum both scientifically important and highly collectible.

Geological Context – Lower Albian, Cretaceous

The Lower Albian stage (part of the Early Cretaceous, ~113–110 million years ago) is a globally significant interval in Earth’s geological record. During this time, much of Europe, including France, was submerged beneath shallow epicontinental seas that were warm, nutrient-rich, and teeming with marine life. The sediments deposited in these environments provided ideal conditions for the preservation of ammonites and other marine organisms.

The Albian stage is defined internationally by the first appearance of Douvilleiceras mammillatum in the fossil record, giving this ammonite profound stratigraphic significance. Its global distribution and distinctive morphology have made it a critical tool for geologists in correlating Albian strata across different continents.

Morphological Features of the Fossil

This specimen of Douvilleiceras mammillatum displays the typical traits of the species, including:

• Prominent ribbing and tuberculation across the whorls, giving the shell a bold, sculptured texture.
• Evolute shell form, with inner whorls clearly visible.
• Rounded tubercles along the ribs, creating the characteristic “mammillated” appearance that gives the species its name.
• Excellent preservation in Cretaceous deposits, allowing fine details of shell ornamentation to remain visible.

These features highlight both the aesthetic and scientific value of the specimen.

Scientific Importance

Douvilleiceras mammillatum is one of the most important biostratigraphic markers in the Cretaceous timescale, formally used to define the beginning of the Albian stage. Its widespread distribution across Europe, Africa, and South America means it is a key fossil in correlating Lower Cretaceous marine deposits worldwide. Beyond its stratigraphic role, it provides valuable insight into the evolution of ammonites within the superfamily Acanthoceratoidea and the ecological dynamics of Early Cretaceous seas.

Provenance and Classification

• Species: Douvilleiceras mammillatum
• Age: Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous (~113–110 million years old)
• Locality: France
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthoceratoidea
• Family: Douvilleiceratidae

Collectible and Display Qualities

This ammonite is more than a scientifically significant fossil; it is also a striking display specimen. The bold ribbing and tuberculated ornamentation create a strong visual appeal, making it an excellent addition to both professional collections and private displays. Collectors prize Douvilleiceras mammillatum not only for its rarity and geological significance but also for its intricate and distinctive morphology.

Authenticity Guarantee

As with all of our fossils, this specimen is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil you see in the photos is the exact specimen you will receive, ensuring transparency and trust in your purchase.

This Douvilleiceras mammillatum fossil ammonite is a remarkable specimen that combines scientific importance, natural beauty, and collectible value—an essential piece for any fossil enthusiast, collector, or educational display.