RARE Coilopoceras coiletti Fossil Ammonite Lower Turonian Cretaceous France – Genuine Authentic Prehistoric Marine Cephalopod with COA

Description

Rare Lower Turonian Ammonite from Mt Vertour, France

This listing features a rare Coilopoceras coiletti fossil ammonite from the Lower Turonian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, discovered in the fossil-rich deposits of Mt Vertour, France. This superb specimen has been hand-selected for its excellent preservation, distinctive coiling, and sharp morphological detail. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and authenticity.

Geological Age & Formation

Coilopoceras coiletti lived during the Lower Turonian stage, approximately 93.9 to 89.8 million years ago, in the early part of the Late Cretaceous period. At that time, much of Europe was covered by warm, shallow epicontinental seas, part of a vast marine system that supported a rich diversity of life. Sediments in this region were primarily fine-grained marine deposits, laid down under relatively calm conditions, allowing delicate shell features to be preserved in remarkable detail. The Mt Vertour locality is known among paleontologists for yielding high-quality ammonites, making this a prized example for collectors.

Species Identification & Morphology

Belonging to the family Coilopoceratidae within the superfamily Acanthoceratoidea and order Ammonitida, Coilopoceras coiletti is recognised for its tightly coiled, involute shell with compressed whorls and a narrow venter. The ribbing on the shell is typically fine and closely spaced, with a smooth but distinct appearance that enhances its elegant form. The suture lines, visible on well-preserved specimens such as this one, are complex and intricately patterned, reflecting the ammonite’s advanced evolutionary adaptations.

The streamlined shell shape suggests that Coilopoceras coiletti was a strong, active swimmer in the warm Cretaceous seas. Its morphology would have allowed for efficient movement through the water, helping it pursue prey and evade predators.

Collector Highlights

• Preservation: Outstanding, with clear shell coiling, fine rib detail, and visible suture lines.
• Size Reference: Scale rule cube in photographs = 1 cm squares for accurate measurement.
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Provenance: Discovered in the Lower Turonian marine deposits of Mt Vertour, France.
• Display Quality: An elegant ammonite with scientific and aesthetic appeal, suitable for museum display or private collections.
• Rarity: Coilopoceras coiletti is an uncommon ammonite species on the open fossil market, particularly in such fine condition.

Paleoenvironment & Scientific Significance

During the Lower Turonian, Coilopoceras coiletti thrived in warm, shallow seas rich with life. As a nektonic predator, it likely hunted small marine organisms such as crustaceans, mollusks, and planktonic animals. Its chambered shell (phragmocone) allowed for buoyancy control through careful regulation of gas and liquid within the chambers, enabling precise vertical movement in the water column.

This species is also valued as an index fossil, aiding paleontologists in dating and correlating Turonian-aged marine sediments across Europe and beyond. The combination of its distinctive morphology and restricted stratigraphic range makes it particularly important for biostratigraphic studies.

A Prestigious Addition to Any Fossil Collection

With its sharp detail, scientific importance, and elegant natural form, this Coilopoceras coiletti fossil ammonite is a stunning example of Cretaceous marine life. It is an ideal acquisition for serious fossil collectors, geology enthusiasts, educators, or anyone seeking a unique and authentic piece of Earth’s prehistoric history.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive.