Fossil Ammonite Douvilleiceras orbignyi Genuine Cretaceous Lower Albian France Specimen

Description

Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Douvilleiceras orbignyi

This listing is for an impressive Fossil Ammonite of the species Douvilleiceras orbignyi, originating from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, discovered at Macheron, France. At approximately 113–110 million years old, this specimen represents a highly sought-after ammonite from a well-documented French locality, prized for its distinctive ribbed shell and its importance in stratigraphy. The fossil you see in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, chosen for its preservation and scientific value.

The Species – Douvilleiceras orbignyi

Douvilleiceras orbignyi belongs to the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and Family Douvilleiceratidae. This genus is known for its strongly ornamented, robust shells, often bearing pronounced ribs and tubercles that give them a striking, sculpted appearance. The species orbignyi is one of the most recognisable within this genus and is considered an important index fossil, used by geologists to define specific intervals of the Lower Albian stage. Its distinctive morphology makes it instantly identifiable and a centrepiece in any fossil collection.

Geological Context – Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous

The Lower Albian stage, spanning roughly 113–110 million years ago, marked a time of significant evolutionary change among ammonites and other marine life. The region of Macheron, France, was part of a shallow marine environment connected to the Tethys Ocean. These warm seas supported a diverse array of life, and fine sediments preserved ammonites and other marine fossils in excellent detail. The Albian is particularly important in stratigraphy, and Douvilleiceras orbignyi plays a key role in defining one of its characteristic biozones.

Morphological Features of the Fossil

This Douvilleiceras orbignyi specimen displays the defining traits of the species:

• Planispiral shell coiling, tightly wound and symmetrical.
• Prominent, ribbed ornamentation, with ribs crossing the whorls in a bold and regular pattern.
• Tubercles and nodules visible along rib intersections, giving the shell a strikingly textured appearance.
• Strong, robust whorls, reflecting the evolutionary adaptations of this ammonite lineage.
• Well-preserved suture lines, visible in parts of the fossil, illustrating the intricate internal chamber divisions.

The fossil is photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for precise measurement reference. Its bold ribbing and distinctive morphology make this a scientifically significant and visually appealing specimen.

Scientific Importance

Douvilleiceras orbignyi is an essential biostratigraphic marker, used globally to define a key biozone within the Lower Albian stage of the Cretaceous. Its widespread distribution and distinctive morphology make it invaluable for dating and correlating marine sediments. For collectors, it represents not only a stunning display piece but also a scientifically important fossil that reflects the dynamic evolutionary history of the Early Cretaceous seas.

Provenance and Authenticity

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

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete peace of mind.

Why This Fossil is Exceptional

• A rare and highly recognisable ammonite from the Lower Albian stage.
• Displays the bold ribbing and tuberculate ornamentation unique to Douvilleiceras orbignyi.
• Sourced from the renowned Macheron fossil beds of France.
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring provenance and authenticity.

This Douvilleiceras orbignyi ammonite fossil is a superb example of Cretaceous paleontology, combining striking natural beauty with scientific value. It is a must-have for collectors, educators, and natural history enthusiasts.