RARE Fossil Heteromorph Ammonite Scaphites similis – Lower Cenomanian, Cretaceous – Sarthe, France – Alice Purnell Collection

Description

RARE HETEROMORPH AMMONITE – SCAPHITES SIMILIS

Geological Age: Lower Cenomanian, early Late Cretaceous (~100.5–97 Ma)

Locality: Sarthe Department, Pays de la Loire, France

Stratigraphic Context: Likely basal Cenomanian marine sequences within regional transgressive chalk and marly limestone beds

Collection: From the Alice Purnell Collection

Authenticity: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity

This rare and beautifully preserved heteromorph ammonite, Scaphites similis, hails from the Lower Cenomanian of Sarthe, France. The fossil comes from a classical Cretaceous marine setting renowned for yielding exquisitely preserved cephalopods.

TAXONOMY & GEOLOGY:

• Species: Scaphites similis
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Scaphitoidea
• Family: Scaphitidae
• Geological Period: Cretaceous
• Epoch: Early Late Cretaceous
• Stage: Lower Cenomanian
• Depositional Environment:
• Marine transgressive shelf with calm to moderately energetic conditions
• Rich in ammonites, inoceramids, and planktonic foraminifera
• Biozone (Tentative): Associated with the Mantelliceras mantelli Zone in the Cenomanian ammonite zonation
• Notable Features:
• This genus is distinguished by its involute early whorls followed by a characteristic hook-like uncoiled adult body chamber
• Thought to be nektobenthic (swimming near the seafloor), these ammonites reveal adaptive evolution among heteromorphs
• Specimens like this are valuable in studying mid-Cretaceous ammonite diversity and palaeoecology

MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES:

• Compact early coiled shell transitioning into a recurved hook
• Delicate ribbing and slight tuberculation along the flanks
• Distinct sutural lines visible in well-preserved individuals
• The morphology indicates it was likely a slow swimmer and opportunistic feeder

ABOUT THE SPECIMEN:

The fossil offered is the exact item pictured, carefully curated from the Alice Purnell Collection, known for its scientific integrity and historical provenance. The included photos clearly show the specimen’s structure with a 1cm scale cube for reference. No stock images – you will receive the actual fossil shown.

WHAT YOU GET:

• One authentic Scaphites similis heteromorph ammonite fossil
• Age: Lower Cenomanian (~100.5–97 million years ago)
• Origin: Sarthe, France
• Certificate of Authenticity
• Photographed with 1cm scale for exact sizing
• Secure, well-packed shipping for safe delivery

SUMMARY:

This rare Scaphites similis ammonite from the Lower Cenomanian of France is an excellent example of heteromorph morphology from the early Late Cretaceous. With its distinct coiling and well-defined ribbing, it is both a scientifically significant and visually striking addition to any fossil collection. Specimens of this calibre are highly sought after and rarely available on the market.