Rare Dufrenoyia Ammonite Fossil Lower Aptian Cretaceous Vaucluse France Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Dufrenoyia Ammonite Fossil from Vaucluse, France

This is a rare Dufrenoyia ammonite fossil from the Lower Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous period, discovered in the famous fossil-rich deposits of Vaucluse, France. Dating to approximately 125–113 million years ago, this specimen represents a fascinating marine predator from the ancient Cretaceous seas. The ammonite is photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for reference, and the exact specimen shown is the one you will receive. Every fossil is carefully chosen for its quality and authenticity, and each is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Depositional Environment

The Lower Aptian stage was a time of significant marine diversification, when shallow seas spread across much of Europe. These seas provided the perfect conditions for ammonites to thrive. Over millions of years, fine marine sediments accumulated, gradually encasing the shells of these ancient cephalopods. This process of mineralisation preserved delicate details such as ribbing, keel, and suture lines, which are still visible today.

Fossils from Vaucluse are highly regarded for their preservation and scientific significance. They are essential to the study of Cretaceous biostratigraphy, helping geologists correlate rock formations across Europe and beyond.

Species Overview – Dufrenoyia

The genus Dufrenoyia belongs to the Order Ammonitida, within the Superfamily Acanthocerataceae and the Family Parahoplitidae. These ammonites were free-swimming predators that fed on smaller marine organisms, using their tentacles to capture prey. Their shells were not only protective but also perfectly adapted for buoyancy control and efficient movement in the water column.

Characteristic features of Dufrenoyia ammonites include:

• Strongly ribbed and ornamented shells, often with bifurcating ribs.
• A prominent ventral keel running along the underside of the shell.
• Complex suture lines, highly diagnostic in identifying the genus.
• Moderately evolute coiling, with whorls that remain visible and distinct.

These morphological traits made Dufrenoyia a resilient and hydrodynamic species, suited to the open marine environment of the Cretaceous seas.

Scientific and Collectible Importance

The Dufrenoyia ammonite is particularly valuable as an index fossil, meaning its presence in rock strata allows scientists to date and identify the geological layer with precision. This has made the genus especially important in the study of the Aptian biozones.

Collectors prize Dufrenoyia specimens for their rarity, historical significance, and striking appearance. With its detailed ribbing and characteristic keel, this fossil is both a scientifically important piece and an aesthetically beautiful example of Cretaceous life. Owning a specimen like this connects you directly with a world more than 100 million years old.

Provenance and Classification

• Genus: Dufrenoyia
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthocerataceae
• Family: Parahoplitidae
• Age: Lower Aptian, Early Cretaceous (~125–113 million years ago)
• Locality: Vaucluse, France

A Rare Fossil for Discerning Collectors

This authentic Dufrenoyia ammonite fossil is an exceptional example of Lower Cretaceous marine life, representing a species central to paleontology and fossil collecting. With its rarity, detailed preservation, and guaranteed authenticity, it makes a remarkable addition to any collection, museum display, or educational setting. Each specimen is unique, and this carefully selected piece is offered as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a genuine relic from the Early Cretaceous seas.