Pyrite Ammonite Cut and Polished Pair Cretaceous Nazala Morocco 30–50mm with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Genuine Pyrite Ammonite Cut and Polished Pair – Cretaceous, Nazala, Morocco (30–50mm)

This exquisite Pyrite Ammonite Fossil Pair, dating from the Cretaceous Period, comes from the world-renowned fossil-rich deposits of Nazala, near Rich and Midelt, in the Dra-Tafilalet region of Morocco. Each ammonite has been precisely cut and polished to reveal the fine internal structure of this ancient marine cephalopod, its natural beauty enhanced by the golden metallic sheen of pyrite mineralisation. The photo shows the actual specimen you will receive, and the scale cube = 1cm provides an accurate reference. Measuring approximately 30–50mm, this genuine fossil represents millions of years of geological history preserved in stunning natural artistry.

Scientific Classification and Geological Context

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Order: Ammonitida
• Family: Desmoceratidae (commonly found in this locality)
• Genus: Desmoceras (typical for Cretaceous Moroccan deposits)
• Age: Cretaceous Period (approx. 145 – 66 million years ago)
• Locality: Nazala, near Rich and Midelt, Dra-Tafilalet, Morocco

These ammonites lived in the warm, shallow seas that once covered what is now North Africa during the Early to Mid-Cretaceous, a time when ammonites flourished as dominant marine invertebrates. The region’s fossil beds were part of the Tethys Ocean, a vast tropical seaway that connected marine ecosystems across ancient continents. As the ammonites died, they settled on the seafloor, where rapid burial in fine-grained sediments prevented decay and enabled exceptional preservation.

Formation and Pyritisation Process

The stunning golden appearance of these ammonites is due to pyritisation, a rare and remarkable form of fossil preservation. This process occurred in anoxic (oxygen-depleted) marine environments, where sulphate-reducing bacteria facilitated the transformation of decaying organic matter into iron sulphide minerals (FeS₂) — commonly known as pyrite or “Fool’s Gold.”

Over millions of years, the original shell material was replaced by crystalline pyrite, retaining the ammonite’s exact shape and internal chamber structure. The result is a fossil that gleams with metallic brilliance yet still displays the intricate natural geometry of the original shell. When sliced and polished, these pyritised ammonites reveal exquisite cross-sections of their internal chambers, each one filled with tiny crystals that sparkle under light.

Morphological and Aesthetic Features

Each cut and polished ammonite pair displays the classic planispiral coiling typical of ammonites — a flattened spiral form divided by septa into a series of chambers known as the phragmocone. These chambers once contained gas and liquid that helped the living animal regulate its buoyancy.

The internal structure is beautifully preserved, showing alternating bands of pyritic mineralisation and fine sediment infill. The polished surface reveals the ammonite’s natural patterning and chamber geometry in golden detail. Both halves of the pair mirror each other perfectly, offering a unique view into the fossil’s internal architecture.

Externally, traces of the original ribbing and suture lines may be visible, while the rich golden colour and metallic lustre make this an exceptional display piece. The combination of scientific accuracy and visual appeal makes this pair highly desirable for both collectors and educational displays.

Geological and Palaeontological Significance

Ammonites such as Desmoceras are among the most important index fossils, meaning they help geologists date and correlate rock layers across the world. The Cretaceous ammonite fauna of Morocco provides vital information about the marine environments and evolutionary history of the Tethys Ocean. The Nazala deposits are particularly known for their fine-grained marine shales and limestones, which promote the pyritisation process and yield exceptionally preserved fossils.

This fossil pair is not only a beautiful example of natural mineralisation but also a record of the ancient biosphere — a glimpse into marine life from over 100 million years ago. Each piece is a product of geological transformation, representing both life and mineral in perfect harmony.

Authenticity and Collectible Value

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity verifying their age, origin, and species classification. Each ammonite pair has been hand-cut, polished, and selected for its exceptional quality, lustre, and structural clarity.

This Cretaceous Pyrite Ammonite Pair from Nazala, Morocco (30–50mm) is an extraordinary example of fossil preservation — an authentic piece of prehistory combining scientific significance, geological wonder, and timeless natural beauty.