Quenstedtoceras henrici Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Upper Callovian France Genuine Specimen

Description

Genuine Quenstedtoceras henrici Fossil Ammonite from France

This listing offers an authentic Quenstedtoceras henrici fossil ammonite, preserved from the Upper Callovian Stage of the Jurassic Period, originating from France. This ammonite is a scientifically significant specimen, representing an extinct cephalopod that thrived over 160 million years ago in the shallow marine seas of Europe. Carefully chosen for its clarity and detail, this fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity to guarantee it as a genuine specimen. The photos provided show the exact fossil you will receive.

Geological Setting and Age

The fossil comes from the Upper Callovian Stage of the Middle Jurassic, dating to approximately 164–161 million years ago. The Callovian is well documented for its diverse ammonite fauna, which spread widely across ancient seas and are now used as key stratigraphic indicators in Jurassic geology. The deposits in France, particularly in regions such as Normandy and the Paris Basin, represent shallow epicontinental seas where ammonites like Quenstedtoceras henrici flourished.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Quenstedtoceras
• Species: Quenstedtoceras henrici
• Family: Cardioceratidae
• Superfamily: Stephanoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Age: Upper Callovian, Jurassic Period
• Locality: France

Morphological Features

Quenstedtoceras henrici is recognised by its distinctive ribbing and shell form, which make it a valuable specimen for both collectors and researchers. Characteristic features include:

• Strong, bifurcating ribs that curve elegantly across the shell surface.
• A moderately involute coiling, with visible inner whorls.
• A relatively narrow umbilicus with depth that enhances the fossil’s symmetry.
• The presence of a ventral keel, highlighting its hydrodynamic adaptation.
• The ornamentation and ribbing are not only visually striking but also important markers for distinguishing species within the Cardioceratidae family.

Biostratigraphic and Scientific Importance

Ammonites such as Quenstedtoceras henrici are critical index fossils for the Callovian. Their rapid evolutionary changes, coupled with wide geographical distribution, allow geologists to identify and correlate layers of rock with remarkable accuracy. Q. henrici is closely tied to the Quenstedtoceras henrici biozone, making it a marker species of global stratigraphic value. Its presence in Upper Callovian strata provides direct evidence of marine life and environmental conditions in Jurassic seas.

Depositional Environment

During the Jurassic, the region now known as France was covered by warm, shallow seas teeming with marine life. Ammonites like Quenstedtoceras henrici were active predators, likely feeding on small crustaceans and plankton. When these cephalopods died, their shells settled onto the seabed, where fine sediments gradually buried them. Over millions of years, mineralisation preserved their detailed shell structures, resulting in the exquisite fossils we uncover today.

Collector’s Appeal

This Quenstedtoceras henrici fossil ammonite is an exceptional addition to any collection. Its strong ribbing, classic Jurassic form, and historical value make it highly desirable for both amateur fossil enthusiasts and serious collectors. With its scientific significance and natural beauty, it also serves as a striking educational specimen or display piece.

Item Details

• Fossil Type: Ammonite – Quenstedtoceras henrici
• Age: Upper Callovian, Jurassic (approx. 164–161 million years old)
• Location: France
• Notable Features: Ribbed shell, ventral keel, distinct morphology
• Scale: Rule squares/cube = 1 cm (see photos for exact sizing)
• Certificate: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Specimen Shown: The exact fossil pictured is the one you will receive

A scientifically significant and beautifully preserved Quenstedtoceras henrici ammonite fossil, offering a rare opportunity to own a true piece of Jurassic history from the seas of ancient France.