Iridescent Fossil Ammonite Pseudosonneratia sakalava Albian Cretaceous Madagascar With Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Overview of This Iridescent Pseudosonneratia sakalava Fossil Ammonite

This exquisite iridescent ammonite specimen belongs to the species Pseudosonneratia sakalava, a remarkable and highly sought-after ammonite from the Albian stage of the Lower Cretaceous. Collected near Maintirano on the western coast of Madagascar, this fossil is prized for its natural rainbow iridescence—a preserved remnant of its original aragonite shell structure. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with full sizing details included in the listing images.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Background and Depositional Environment

This ammonite dates to the Albian stage of the Cretaceous Period, approximately 113–100 million years ago. During this time, Madagascar was positioned within the ancient southern continents of Gondwana and surrounded by warm, tropical marine environments rich in diverse marine life, including ammonites, nautiloids, marine reptiles, and bivalves.

The ammonite-bearing strata near Maintirano consist of fine marine sediments deposited along shallow continental shelf environments. These low-energy, oxygen-poor conditions were ideal for the preservation of delicate aragonitic shells. Over millions of years, mineral replacement and the retention of nacreous layers resulted in the stunning iridescence characteristic of many Madagascan ammonite fossils.

Taxonomy and Scientific Classification

Species: Pseudosonneratia sakalava

Genus: Pseudosonneratia

Family: Hoplitidae

Superfamily: Hoplitoidea

Order: Ammonitida

Geological Stage: Albian, Lower Cretaceous

Locality: Maintirano, Madagascar

Members of the family Hoplitidae are known for their strong ribbing, intricate ornamentation, and often beautifully preserved shell structures.

Morphological Features and Notable Traits

This specimen of Pseudosonneratia sakalava displays classic diagnostic traits associated with the species:

• Stunning natural iridescence, with vibrant hues of green, gold, blue, rose, and violet reflecting across the shell
• Strong radial ribbing, extending from the umbilicus to the venter
• Accentuated shell whorls, revealing the ammonite’s coiled growth pattern
• Well-defined ventral region, often featuring subtle keels or thickened ribs
• Fine suture patterns, visible where the internal chamber walls once met the outer shell

The iridescence results from thin layers of fossilised aragonite, which refract and scatter light to produce an opal-like display. This optical phenomenon makes iridescent Madagascan ammonites some of the most visually striking fossils available.

Paleoenvironmental and Scientific Importance

Ammonites such as Pseudosonneratia sakalava serve as important index fossils, helping paleontologists:

• Identify specific Albian biozones
• Correlate marine strata across different regions
• Reconstruct paleoceanographic conditions
• Understand evolutionary pathways within Hoplitidae

Their distinctive morphology and widespread distribution in Cretaceous seas make them valuable for both scientific study and biostratigraphic classification.

The exceptional preservation of Madagascan ammonites also allows researchers to examine shell microstructure and coloration patterns rarely retained in fossils from other localities.

Origin and Regional Significance

Madagascar is internationally renowned for producing some of the world’s most beautiful ammonites, particularly those exhibiting strong, natural iridescence. The Maintirano region remains one of the top global sources for Albian ammonites, though high-quality iridescent specimens have become increasingly scarce due to reduced access and limited remaining exposures.

This piece represents a premium example of Madagascan paleontology—both scientifically important and aesthetically remarkable.

Collectability and Display Appeal

This iridescent ammonite is a superb collector’s piece suitable for display in:

• Museum collections
• Private fossil collections
• Decorative natural history exhibits
• Educational settings

Its shimmering, colourful surface and textbook Pseudosonneratia morphology make it a standout specimen that commands visual attention from any angle.

Whether admired for its geological history or its dazzling natural beauty, this ammonite is an extraordinary addition to any fossil collection.

Authenticity and Customer Assurance

You will receive the exact Pseudosonneratia sakalava ammonite shown in the photographs. Every fossil is professionally inspected and verified, and your purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity confirming its genuine Albian age and origin from Maintirano, Madagascar.