Description
Rare Dalmasiceras Ammonite Fossil – Berriasian, Early Cretaceous
This rare Dalmasiceras ammonite fossil originates from the Lacisterne Boisset region of Gard, France, and dates to the Berriasian Stage of the Early Cretaceous, approximately 145–139 million years ago. Ammonites of the genus Dalmasiceras are important index fossils for this stage, helping paleontologists establish the base of the Cretaceous period. This carefully selected specimen is 100% genuine, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, and is shown in the photographs with a 1cm scale cube for precise size reference.
Geological Context
- Geological Period: Cretaceous
- Stage: Berriasian (earliest stage of the Cretaceous)
- Age: ~145–139 million years ago
- Provenance: Lacisterne Boisset, Gard, France
The Berriasian Stage marks the transition from the Late Jurassic into the Cretaceous, an interval of significant evolutionary change in ammonite faunas. Fossils from this stage are especially valuable because they provide key data for global stratigraphy, defining the beginning of the Cretaceous. The limestone-rich deposits of southern France preserve these ammonites in remarkable detail, offering insight into marine environments at the dawn of this new era.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Mollusca
- Class: Cephalopoda
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Perisphinctoidea
- Family: Neocomitidae
- Genus: Dalmasiceras
Morphological Features
The Dalmasiceras ammonite is characterised by:
- Whorls: Involute with relatively narrow umbilicus, giving a compact shell form.
- Ornamentation: Prominent ribs, often bifurcating towards the outer whorl, providing a diagnostic feature.
- Venter: Rounded with ribs crossing cleanly over, lacking a sharp keel.
- Suture Pattern: Moderately complex, typical of Neocomitidae, aiding in species identification.
These features make Dalmasiceras instantly recognisable among Early Cretaceous ammonites and contribute to its value both for scientific study and private collections.
Paleoenvironment and Significance
During the Berriasian, the region that is now Gard, France lay within the subtropical Tethys Ocean. Shallow, warm marine platforms provided an ideal environment for ammonites, along with belemnites, bivalves, gastropods, and early marine reptiles. Ammonites like Dalmasiceras lived actively in the water column, hunting small crustaceans and plankton while regulating buoyancy via their chambered shells.
Dalmasiceras holds great importance as a biostratigraphic marker fossil, widely used to define and correlate the Berriasian Stage across Europe and beyond. Its distinctive morphology and abundance in certain beds allow geologists to precisely date rock layers, making specimens like this crucial for both collectors and researchers.
Key Details
- Species: Dalmasiceras sp.
- Age: Early Cretaceous, Berriasian (~145–139 million years ago)
- Location: Lacisterne Boisset, Gard, France
- Authenticity: Supplied with Certificate of Authenticity
- Sizing: Photographed with 1cm scale cube for accuracy
Collectability and Display Value
This rare Dalmasiceras ammonite fossil represents an outstanding opportunity to own a scientifically significant and beautifully preserved specimen from the earliest stage of the Cretaceous. Its strong ribbing and classic ammonite form make it a striking display piece, while its role as an important index fossil enhances its scientific and educational value.
Whether you are a seasoned fossil collector, an educator seeking genuine teaching specimens, or someone fascinated by the evolution of life through deep time, this ammonite offers both aesthetic beauty and paleontological importance. It is an excellent addition to any collection, linking the past 145 million years directly to the present.
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