Rare Dufrenoyia furcata Ammonite Fossil Lower Aptian Cretaceous Vaucluse France Genuine

Description

Rare Dufrenoyia furcata Ammonite Fossil from Vaucluse, France

This exceptional specimen is a rare Dufrenoyia furcata ammonite fossil, originating from the Lower Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous and discovered in the world-renowned fossil beds of Vaucluse, France. Formed approximately 125–113 million years ago, this ammonite preserves the intricate beauty of one of Earth’s most iconic marine invertebrates. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube shown for accurate sizing. Every piece we offer is a genuine specimen and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Formation

The Aptian stage of the Cretaceous period was a time of warm climates, fluctuating sea levels, and rapidly evolving marine ecosystems. The shallow seas covering much of southern France created perfect conditions for ammonite preservation. Fine marine sediments buried these cephalopods soon after death, preserving remarkable details in their shells. Fossils from this level of the Aptian are globally significant because they allow paleontologists to define precise biozones for dating rock layers and reconstructing ancient marine environments.

The Vaucluse deposits are considered particularly rich in ammonite diversity, offering some of the finest examples of Lower Cretaceous cephalopods available to science and collectors alike.

Species Profile – Dufrenoyia furcata

Dufrenoyia furcata belongs to the Family Parahoplitidae, within the Superfamily Acanthocerataceae, Order Ammonitida. It is one of the most distinctive ammonites of the Lower Aptian, widely recognised for its value as an index fossil. This means it is essential in stratigraphy, enabling geologists to correlate Aptian-aged formations across different regions.

Morphological features of Dufrenoyia furcata include:

• An evolute shell where whorls are not deeply overlapping, giving a wide umbilicus.
• Strong, well-developed primary ribs that often bifurcate into secondary ribs.
• A pronounced ventral keel, enhancing shell hydrodynamics.
• Characteristic furcation (branching ribbing) from which the species takes its name.
• Highly ornate suture patterns, typical of advanced ammonites, visible in well-preserved specimens.

This ammonite was likely an active nektonic predator, similar to modern squid, inhabiting warm shallow seas and feeding on smaller marine organisms.

Scientific and Collectible Value

This species has been widely referenced in paleontological studies for more than a century, particularly in European ammonite biostratigraphy. Its strong diagnostic features make it invaluable for researchers and collectors alike. For private collectors, Dufrenoyia furcata is especially prized for its rarity, scientific importance, and striking appearance. Its ribbed and sculptured form makes it a visually impressive display piece as well as a scientifically significant fossil.

Provenance and Classification

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

A Rare and Authentic Fossil for Collectors

This carefully chosen Dufrenoyia furcata ammonite fossil offers a rare opportunity to own a genuine piece of Lower Cretaceous history. Its geological and paleontological importance, combined with its natural beauty, make it an ideal specimen for collectors, educators, or anyone with a passion for ancient life. As with all our specimens, it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring both its provenance and genuine nature.