Rare Crioceratites tuberculatus Heteromorph Fossil Ammonite Hauterivian Cretaceous Drome France Authentic Collector Specimen with COA

Description

This listing is for a rare fossil ammonite, Crioceratites tuberculatus, an unusual heteromorph ammonite from the Hauterivian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 132–129 million years ago). This specimen was collected in the Drôme region of southeastern France, a world-renowned area for its Early Cretaceous fossil deposits. Unlike the tightly coiled ammonites more commonly seen, heteromorphs such as C. tuberculatus developed open, loosely coiled shells that make them striking and highly desirable among collectors. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive. Scale rule squares / cube = 1 cm – please see the photos for accurate size reference. Every fossil we supply is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous

The Hauterivian stage represents an important part of the Early Cretaceous period. During this time, much of what is now southern France was covered by shallow epicontinental seas along the margin of the Tethys Ocean. These seas deposited layers of marl, limestone, and clay, producing excellent conditions for fossilisation.

Ammonites from this stage are particularly important because they are used as index fossils, helping geologists to date and correlate marine rock layers across Europe and beyond. Specimens such as Crioceratites tuberculatus are crucial for refining the stratigraphy of the Hauterivian.

The Species: Crioceratites tuberculatus

Crioceratites tuberculatus belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Ancylocerataceae, and family Ancyloceratidae. This heteromorph ammonite displays a crioconic, loosely coiled shell, where the whorls remain separated rather than tightly wound. Its name reflects the presence of distinctive tuberculate ornamentation—small nodes or projections along the ribs that provide both structural reinforcement and an easily identifiable feature for paleontologists.

The strong ribbing and tubercles across the shell give this ammonite a highly textured and striking appearance. Unlike planispiral ammonites that were likely active swimmers, heteromorph ammonites such as C. tuberculatus may have drifted or hovered in the water column, adopting a slower lifestyle suited to their unusual morphology.

Morphological and Scientific Features

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Ancylocerataceae
• Family: Ancyloceratidae
• Genus and Species: Crioceratites tuberculatus
• Geological Stage: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous (c. 132–129 Ma)
• Locality: Drôme, France
• Shell Traits: Loosely coiled crioconic form, strong ribbing, characteristic tuberculate ornamentation
• Scientific Importance: Index fossil of Hauterivian deposits, key in studies of heteromorph ammonite evolution

The presence of tuberculation makes C. tuberculatus especially distinctive among heteromorph ammonites, providing both scientific significance and aesthetic appeal.

Collector and Display Value

Heteromorph ammonites are far rarer than their tightly coiled relatives, and Crioceratites tuberculatus is a particularly sought-after species due to its bold ribbing and tuberculate features. Its unusual form and rarity make it an exceptional specimen for collectors of fine ammonites.

The Drôme locality adds additional value, as the region is internationally recognised for producing some of the finest Hauterivian ammonite fossils in Europe. Its provenance ensures both scientific credibility and collector appeal.

All of our specimens are carefully selected for authenticity and preservation. This Crioceratites tuberculatus ammonite comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance as a genuine Early Cretaceous fossil. A rare and remarkable heteromorph ammonite, it represents both the beauty and diversity of life in the ancient seas of France.