Rare Crioceratites majoricensis Heteromorph Fossil Ammonite Hauterivian Cretaceous Alps Haute Provence France with COA

Description

This listing is for a rare fossil ammonite, Crioceratites majoricensis, a striking heteromorph species from the Hauterivian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 132–129 million years ago). This specimen was collected in the Alps Haute Provence region of France, an area world-renowned for its Cretaceous fossil deposits. Unlike typical planispiral ammonites, heteromorphs such as Crioceratites majoricensis developed open, loosely coiled shells, making them highly unusual and prized additions to collections. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive. Scale rule squares / cube = 1 cm – please refer to the photos for accurate sizing. All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous

The Hauterivian stage represents an important part of the Early Cretaceous, during which ammonites underwent significant evolutionary diversification. At this time, southeastern France lay beneath shallow epicontinental seas along the northern margin of the Tethys Ocean. These warm waters encouraged abundant marine life, while the marls and limestones deposited there created exceptional fossil preservation conditions.

The Alps Haute Provence is one of Europe’s classic localities for Hauterivian ammonites, offering rich fossil assemblages that are used as index fossils to date and correlate Early Cretaceous rocks across Europe and beyond. Fossils such as Crioceratites majoricensis are key to refining the stratigraphy of this time period.

The Species: Crioceratites majoricensis

Crioceratites majoricensis belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Ancylocerataceae, and family Ancyloceratidae. This heteromorph ammonite is characterised by its loosely coiled crioconic shell, with open whorls that do not touch each other. This form stands in contrast to the tightly coiled spirals of more common ammonite types.

The shell of C. majoricensis exhibits bold ribbing that runs across the flanks, providing both strength and striking ornamentation. These ribs are a key diagnostic feature, helping paleontologists to identify the species with precision. The uncoiled morphology suggests adaptations to a lifestyle different from that of planispiral ammonites—possibly involving slower swimming or drifting in the marine environment.

Morphological and Scientific Features

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Ancylocerataceae
• Family: Ancyloceratidae
• Genus and Species: Crioceratites majoricensis
• Geological Stage: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous (c. 132–129 Ma)
• Locality: Alps Haute Provence, France
• Shell Traits: Loosely coiled crioconic shell, strong ribbing, distinctive open structure
• Scientific Significance: Important heteromorph ammonite, index fossil for Hauterivian stratigraphy

This ammonite is an excellent example of heteromorph evolution within the Early Cretaceous, reflecting the diversity and adaptability of ammonites during this era.

Collector and Display Value

Heteromorph ammonites are highly prized due to their rarity and unusual morphology, and Crioceratites majoricensis is no exception. Its distinctive open coiling and ribbing make it both a scientifically valuable specimen and an eye-catching fossil for display.

The Alps Haute Provence locality adds prestige, as it is internationally recognised for its outstanding Hauterivian fossil record. Fossils from this region are in demand among both private collectors and institutions for their quality and scientific importance.

All of our fossils are carefully selected for authenticity and preservation. This specimen is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its provenance and genuineness. This Crioceratites majoricensis ammonite is a rare and remarkable example of a heteromorph ammonite from the Early Cretaceous seas of France, making it an exceptional addition to any fossil collection.