Description
Stunning 16″ Orthoceras Fossil Display Plaque
This impressive 16-inch Orthoceras fossil plaque is a genuine specimen from the Devonian deposits of Morocco, carefully selected for its striking visual impact and scientific interest. Orthoceras, meaning “straight horn,” were ancient cephalopods belonging to the extinct order Orthocerida. They lived in the oceans hundreds of millions of years ago and are direct relatives of today’s squid and octopus. This plaque presents multiple beautifully preserved Orthoceras fossils embedded in their natural limestone matrix, offering both a decorative and educational display piece.
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photograph shows an example of the type and quality of the fossil you will receive. A 1cm scale cube is pictured for accurate sizing reference.
Geological Age and Origin
This Orthoceras display piece comes from the Devonian Period, dating back approximately 419 to 359 million years ago. The Devonian, often called the “Age of Fishes,” was a time of extraordinary marine diversity when cephalopods thrived in warm, shallow seas. The fossils are recovered from Morocco’s renowned fossil beds, a region famous for yielding exceptionally preserved marine life from this era.
The limestone matrix surrounding the Orthoceras reflects the ancient seabed where these creatures once lived and died. Over millions of years, the shells became mineralised, with their inner chambers preserved in fine detail. This natural process has left behind a striking contrast between the dark matrix and the pale fossil shells.
Fossil Type and Species Information
Orthoceras were straight-shelled nautiloid cephalopods that grew elongated conical shells divided into internal chambers. These chambers were connected by a central tube known as the siphuncle, which allowed the animal to regulate buoyancy in the water column. This adaptation made Orthoceras efficient hunters in Devonian seas.
Belonging to the Class Cephalopoda and Order Orthocerida, these creatures represent an important evolutionary stage in molluscan history. Their lineage demonstrates the development of complex marine predators that paved the way for the evolution of ammonites and modern cephalopods. The plaque showcases multiple individuals, each fossil aligned naturally as they would have been preserved in the seabed.
Morphological Features
The Orthoceras shells are elongated, straight, and tapering, with clearly visible internal chamber divisions. In polished fossil plaques such as this, you can observe the segmented chamber walls, revealing how these ancient animals controlled their buoyancy. The central siphuncle is often visible as a fine line running down the fossil’s length. These details make Orthoceras fossils especially appealing to collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of natural history.
Display and Collectible Value
This 16″ Orthoceras plaque has been cut and prepared to enhance both its visual and scientific appeal. Its size makes it a standout display piece suitable for a fossil collection, office, classroom, or home décor. The natural stone matrix adds weight and authenticity, while the polished fossil surfaces highlight intricate details that are otherwise hidden.
As each specimen is unique, the fossil you receive will vary slightly in shape, alignment, and matrix pattern, ensuring that every plaque is a one-of-a-kind piece of natural history.
Why Collect Orthoceras Fossils?
Orthoceras fossils are among the most accessible yet scientifically important fossils on the market. They represent early cephalopod evolution and illustrate the rich biodiversity of Devonian seas. Collectors value them not only for their striking geometric beauty but also for their role in telling the story of life’s progression through deep time.
This 16″ plaque combines scientific interest, educational value, and natural artistry in one remarkable fossil display. A perfect addition for fossil enthusiasts, geology lovers, interior decorators, or anyone fascinated by Earth’s prehistoric past.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.