RARE 5″ Cymatoceras neocomensis Fossil Nautilus – Aptian, Cretaceous – Seine-Maritime, France – Alice Purnell Collection

Description

This listing features a rare and beautifully preserved fossil nautilus of the species Cymatoceras neocomensis from the Aptian Stage of the Early Cretaceous period, dating to approximately 125 to 113 million years ago. This exceptional specimen was found in Seine-Maritime, Normandy, France, and is part of the renowned Alice Purnell Collection, recognised for its museum-grade and scientifically documented fossils.

Cymatoceras is a genus of extinct nautiloid cephalopods, similar in appearance to the modern-day nautilus but differing in suture complexity and shell morphology. Cymatoceras neocomensis is distinguished by its rounded whorls, deep umbilicus, and distinctive ribbing pattern along the shell. These marine molluscs used gas-filled chambers in their shells for buoyancy, drifting through ancient seas as opportunistic feeders.

This particular specimen, measuring approximately 5 inches, shows excellent preservation of the coiling and ornamental features. It is a scientifically valuable and highly displayable fossil.

Geological Context: The Aptian Stage (125–113 million years ago) was a time of warm shallow seas, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. The region of Seine-Maritime in northern France is known for its fossiliferous limestone and marl deposits, producing exceptional marine fossils from the Early Cretaceous. These sediments offer insights into the evolution of marine faunas and palaeoenvironmental conditions.

Key Details:

• Species: Cymatoceras neocomensis (Fossil Nautilus)
• Fossil Type: Extinct marine nautiloid cephalopod
• Age: Aptian Stage, Early Cretaceous (~125–113 million years ago)
• Location Found: Seine-Maritime, France
• Provenance: From the Alice Purnell Collection
• Size: Approx. 5 inches (see 1cm scale cube in photo)
• Condition: Exceptional preservation with visible shell details and natural form
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Photo: The actual specimen shown is the one you will receive

Scientific & Collector Value: Fossils of Cymatoceras neocomensis are relatively rare and prized by both palaeontologists and collectors for their diagnostic features and importance in cephalopod evolution. Its inclusion in the Alice Purnell Collection adds further value, ensuring both authenticity and historical significance.

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

Fast & Secure Shipping – Professionally packaged and promptly shipped to ensure safe delivery.

Own a piece of ancient marine history with this rare 5″ Cymatoceras neocomensis nautilus fossil from the Aptian of Seine-Maritime, France.