Iridescent Rhodiceras Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Russia Genuine Certified Specimen

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Iridescent Rhodiceras Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Russia Genuine Certified Specimen

Iridescent Rhodiceras Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Russia Authentic Certified Fossil with Certificate of Authenticity

Long Description

Rare Iridescent Rhodiceras Ammonite Fossil from Russia

This outstanding Rhodiceras ammonite fossil is a remarkable specimen showcasing natural iridescence, a shimmering effect caused by the preservation of the shell’s original aragonite layers. It originates from the Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 113–100 million years ago), and was discovered in Russia, a region known for yielding beautifully preserved ammonites of this age. Every specimen we offer is carefully chosen for quality and authenticity, and this ammonite comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photo provided shows the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for precise size reference.

Geological Context – The Albian Stage of the Cretaceous

The Albian stage represents a dynamic period of the Early Cretaceous, characterised by rising sea levels and widespread shallow marine environments across Europe and Asia. Russia’s Albian deposits are especially significant for the study of ammonite evolution and distribution, offering fossils with remarkable preservation due to the fine-grained marine sediments in which they were buried. These environments often provided low-oxygen conditions that limited decay and preserved the original shell structure, allowing delicate iridescence to survive through millions of years. Rhodiceras is one of the ammonite genera that flourished during this time, and specimens like this provide invaluable data for paleontologists studying stratigraphy and paleobiogeography.

Scientific Classification

• Class: Cephalopoda
• Subclass: Ammonoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitoidea
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Genus: Rhodiceras

This placement within the Hoplitidae family highlights its relation to other robustly ornamented Albian ammonites, many of which are key index fossils for defining biozones across Europe and Asia. The genus Rhodiceras is recognised for its distinctive ribbing and strong shell morphology.

Morphological Features of Rhodiceras

The shell of Rhodiceras is typically evolute, with whorls that are well-exposed and ornamented by strong, radiating ribs. These ribs often cross the venter and provide the ammonite with a robust, striking appearance. The iridescent quality of this specimen enhances these natural details, with shimmering hues of green, blue, and red visible under light. The durability of the shell, combined with its ornate ribbing, made Rhodiceras highly adapted to life in open marine waters where streamlined strength and buoyancy control were critical. Collectors and researchers alike value these features, both for their beauty and for the scientific information they provide about Cretaceous cephalopods.

Depositional Environment and Paleoecology

During the Albian stage, the seas covering present-day Russia were shallow, warm, and nutrient-rich. These conditions supported diverse ecosystems where ammonites like Rhodiceras thrived as nektonic predators, actively swimming and feeding on smaller marine organisms. The fine-grained marine sediments of these environments helped preserve fossils in extraordinary condition, often retaining the delicate aragonite layers responsible for iridescence. This makes Russian Albian ammonites particularly prized, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their contribution to understanding Early Cretaceous marine ecosystems.

Collector and Display Value

This iridescent Rhodiceras ammonite fossil is a true collector’s piece, combining scientific importance with natural beauty. The strong ribbing, iridescent shell layers, and historical significance of its Russian origin make it an outstanding addition to any fossil or natural history collection. Its visual qualities also make it a striking display specimen, perfect for museums, educational settings, or private collectors who value unique geological treasures.

Every specimen we offer is 100% genuine, unique, and carefully selected, providing you with an authentic connection to the marine world of the Early Cretaceous over 100 million years ago. This Rhodiceras ammonite is both a stunning natural artwork and a scientifically significant fossil, preserving a rare glimpse into the ancient oceans of Earth’s past.