Phymosoma magnificum Regular Echinoid Fossil, Campanian Stage, Cretaceous France | Authentic Specimen + COA

Description

Phymosoma magnificum Regular Echinoid Fossil – Campanian Stage, Late Cretaceous, Talmont, Charente-Maritime, France

This striking fossil is a beautifully preserved specimen of Phymosoma magnificum, a regular echinoid (sea urchin) from the Campanian stage of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 83.6 to 72.1 million years ago. It was collected from the marine limestone beds around Talmont, located in the Charente-Maritime department of southwestern France—an area renowned for producing finely preserved Cretaceous invertebrate fossils.

Fossil Type & Species:

• Type: Invertebrate Fossil (Regular Echinoid / Sea Urchin)
• Species: Phymosoma magnificum
• Phylum: Echinodermata
• Class: Echinoidea
• Order: Phymosomatoida (or Cidaroida, classification varies)
• Family: Phymosomatidae
• Described by: Agassiz, mid-19th century (genus authority)

Geological & Stratigraphic Details:

• Location: Talmont-sur-Gironde, Charente-Maritime, France
• Formation: Campanian marine chalk and marl beds
• Geological Stage: Campanian (Late Cretaceous)
• Age: ~83.6–72.1 million years ago
• Biozone: Campanian echinoid-rich strata (specific subzone unassigned)
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine carbonate platform with quiet depositional conditions ideal for fossilisation of echinoderms and other invertebrates

Morphology & Features: This Phymosoma magnificum fossil displays:

• Thick, rounded test (shell) with a symmetrical and slightly flattened shape
• Prominent primary tubercles used for spine attachment, arranged in radiating rows
• Deeply impressed ambulacral zones giving the shell a distinct petaloid appearance
• Natural preservation in hues of beige, light brown, or pale grey
• Often displays partial or associated spines and well-defined plate ornamentation

Notable: Phymosoma magnificum is one of the more ornate and well-known Cretaceous echinoid species from France. Its robust test, deeply impressed features, and balanced form make it both scientifically valuable and aesthetically striking. These fossils are often found in collections and museum exhibits focusing on Mesozoic marine invertebrates.

Specimen Details:

• Origin: Talmont, Charente-Maritime, France
• Species: Phymosoma magnificum
• Fossil Type: Regular Echinoid / Sea Urchin Shell
• Geological Stage: Campanian, Late Cretaceous
• Size Reference: Scale rule square = 1cm (see listing photo for exact dimensions)
• Note: You will receive the exact fossil specimen pictured

Authenticity & Quality: This fossil is 100% genuine, professionally verified, and selected for its completeness and natural appeal. It includes a Certificate of Authenticity. No restorations or enhancements applied.

Why Choose This Fossil? A perfect piece for:

• Collectors of echinoids and Cretaceous fossils
• Educational displays on marine palaeontology
• Decorative natural history exhibits
• Unique gifts for fossil enthusiasts and geologists

Shipping & Packaging: We use eco-conscious packaging and ship with full tracking and protection. Each fossil is carefully wrapped to ensure safe delivery.

Add an elegant and scientifically significant Cretaceous sea urchin to your collection with this stunning Phymosoma magnificum fossil from Talmont, France.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.