RARE Fossil Heteromorph Ammonite Crioceratites majoricensis – Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous – France – Alice Purnell Collection

Description

RARE FOSSIL HETEROMORPH AMMONITE – CRIOCERATITES MAJORICENSIS

Geological Stage: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous (~132–129 million years ago)

Locality: Alps Haute-Provence, France

From the Alice Purnell Collection

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity

This rare and scientifically significant specimen is a heteromorph ammonite from the genus Crioceratites, species majoricensis. It was collected from the Hauterivian stage of the Early Cretaceous in the renowned fossiliferous limestone beds of the Alps Haute-Provence region of France.

The fossil displays classic heteromorph features characteristic of this genus, with a partially open-coiled spiral and defined ribbing. It represents an evolutionary divergence from the standard planispiral ammonite forms, offering unique insights into paleobiological and ecological variation in early Cretaceous cephalopods.

The 1cm scale cube visible in the photo allows for accurate assessment of size. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive and is part of the prestigious Alice Purnell Collection, known for its authentic, well-curated specimens. This ammonite is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

GEOLOGICAL & TAXONOMIC DETAILS:

• Species: Crioceratites majoricensis
• Age: Hauterivian (Early Cretaceous)
• Stratigraphy: Part of the Lower Cretaceous marine sequences of southeast France, a globally significant region for ammonite zonation and biostratigraphy
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine carbonate shelf; calm, relatively warm seas supporting diverse nektonic faunas
• Biozone (if applicable): Within the Crioceratites genus range zones, common markers in the early Hauterivian stages
• Morphology Features:
• Loose to moderately open coiling (heteromorphic)
• Prominent, bifurcating ribs
• Evolute shell structure lacking complete involution
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Ancyloceratoidea
• Family: Ancyloceratidae

PALEONTOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

Crioceratites majoricensis is emblematic of heteromorphic ammonites—forms that did not conform to the tightly coiled shell shape of most ammonites. Its unusual coiling may have reflected different life strategies such as vertical migration in the water column or alternative swimming patterns.

These fossils are valuable for understanding evolutionary experimentation within the Ammonoidea and provide vital index data for global Cretaceous correlations.

DISPLAY VALUE:

This specimen is not only a scientific treasure but also a striking display fossil, suitable for collectors of rare ammonites, heteromorphs, or Cretaceous material. It is a fine addition to any palaeontological display or academic collection.

INCLUDED WITH PURCHASE:

• Exact fossil specimen shown in the photographs
• Certificate of Authenticity
• From the prestigious Alice Purnell Collection
• 1cm scale cube for visual reference
• Professionally packaged for secure delivery

A truly exceptional example of a rare heteromorph ammonite from one of Europe’s most important fossil regions. Own a piece of Cretaceous marine history with scientific and aesthetic value.