Rare Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi Ammonite Fossil Lower Aptian Cretaceous Vaucluse France Genuine

Description

Rare Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi Ammonite Fossil from Vaucluse, France

This is a rare and scientifically important Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi ammonite fossil, originating from the Lower Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous, discovered in the fossil-rich beds of Vaucluse, France. Estimated to be around 125–113 million years old, this specimen is a genuine relic of Earth’s deep past. The fossil shown in the photographs is the actual piece you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference. Every fossil we supply is 100% genuine and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context – Lower Aptian, Early Cretaceous

The Aptian stage was a time of dramatic evolutionary developments in marine ecosystems, with ammonites reaching great diversity and abundance. During this stage, much of Europe, including southern France, was covered by warm, shallow epicontinental seas that provided an ideal environment for marine life. Sediments deposited in these environments preserved ammonites in remarkable detail, creating fossil-rich layers that serve as important stratigraphic markers today.

The Vaucluse region is internationally recognised as one of the key localities for Aptian ammonites, producing specimens that have been crucial in the development of modern paleontological classification and biostratigraphy.

Species Profile – Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi

Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi belongs to the Family Parahoplitidae, within the Superfamily Acanthocerataceae, Order Ammonitida. This species is one of the most representative ammonites of the Lower Aptian and has been widely studied for its role as an index fossil, allowing geologists to correlate Aptian-aged rock formations across Europe and beyond.

Distinctive features of Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi include:

• Evolute shell structure with widely spaced whorls.
• Strong, pronounced ribbing extending across the flanks, often bifurcating and giving the shell a bold, sculptured appearance.
• A noticeable ventral keel that added stability during swimming.
• Highly complex suture lines, characteristic of advanced ammonites.

These features point to a highly adapted nektonic predator, capable of active swimming in the shallow seas of the Cretaceous. Like modern cephalopods, it would have preyed upon smaller invertebrates and fish, playing an important role in the marine food chain.

Scientific and Collectible Importance

Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi is highly significant both scientifically and as a collector’s piece. Its status as an index fossil means it is essential for pinpointing Lower Aptian strata within the Cretaceous period. For collectors, its rarity, well-defined morphology, and association with a globally recognised fossil zone make it particularly desirable.

This specimen is not only an attractive display fossil but also a piece with true historical and geological significance. The species has long been referenced in paleontological literature and remains a benchmark for Aptian ammonite studies.

Provenance and Classification

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

A Genuine Piece for Collectors

This Dufrenoyia dufrenoyi ammonite fossil is a carefully selected, one-of-a-kind specimen. Its historical, scientific, and aesthetic value make it an excellent addition to any fossil collection or natural history display. As with all of our specimens, it is guaranteed genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, offering complete assurance of its authenticity and provenance.