RARE Iridescent Shulginites tolijensis Fossil Ammonite Sibiricus Zone Cretaceous Russia – Genuine Authentic Prehistoric Marine Cephalopod

Description

Exceptional Iridescent Fossil Ammonite from the Northern Urals, Russia

This listing features a rare iridescent Shulginites tolijensis fossil ammonite from the Sibiricus Zone of the Ryazanian stage, Early Cretaceous period. Discovered on the eastern slopes of the Northern Urals, Russia, this specimen is a remarkable example of natural beauty and scientific significance. Carefully selected for its preservation, colour, and intricate detail, it is an outstanding addition to any fossil collection. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, ensuring complete authenticity and transparency.

Geological Age & Formation

Shulginites tolijensis lived during the Ryazanian stage of the Early Cretaceous, approximately 145 to 139.8 million years ago. This specimen originates specifically from the Sibiricus Zone, an important biozone within the Lower Cretaceous sequence. At this time, the Northern Urals region was covered by cold, shallow marine environments connected to the Boreal seas. Fine-grained sediments and rapid burial preserved ammonite shells in extraordinary detail, with some, like this example, displaying a rare iridescent sheen caused by the microstructure of the original shell material interacting with light.

Species Identification & Morphology

Belonging to the family Shulginitidae within the superfamily Perisphinctoidea and order Ammonitida, Shulginites tolijensis is notable for its moderately involute shell, prominent ribbing, and well-developed keel along the venter. The ribs are strong and regular, providing both structural reinforcement and hydrodynamic efficiency. This specimen retains fine suture patterns—complex, folded lines marking the boundaries of the shell’s internal chambers—offering valuable insight into the ammonite’s evolutionary adaptations.

The defining visual feature of this particular fossil is its natural iridescence, displaying flashes of green, blue, gold, and pink when viewed under light. This is caused by nacreous shell layers preserved over millions of years, making it a striking showpiece in any display.

Collector Highlights

• Preservation: Exceptional, with sharp ribbing, visible sutures, and vibrant natural iridescence.
• Size Reference: Scale cube in photographs = 1 cm squares for accurate sizing.
• Authenticity: Guaranteed 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Provenance: Eastern slopes, Northern Urals, Russia – Sibiricus Zone, Ryazanian, Early Cretaceous.
• Display Quality: Museum-worthy specimen ideal for collectors, educators, and display enthusiasts.
• Rarity: Iridescent Shulginites tolijensis from this locality and geological stage is exceptionally scarce.

Paleoenvironment & Scientific Importance

During the Ryazanian stage, the Northern Urals were part of a high-latitude marine ecosystem influenced by the Boreal seas. Shulginites tolijensis was a nektonic predator, swimming actively in the water column and feeding on small marine invertebrates. Its chambered phragmocone allowed for precise buoyancy control, enabling it to navigate efficiently between different ocean depths.

This species is an important index fossil for the Sibiricus Zone, used by paleontologists to identify and correlate Early Cretaceous rock formations across Boreal regions. The combination of distinctive morphology, restricted stratigraphic range, and well-preserved detail makes specimens like this invaluable for scientific study.

A Rare and Striking Piece of Natural History

With its perfect preservation, rare iridescence, and well-documented provenance, this Shulginites tolijensis fossil ammonite is both a scientifically important specimen and a visually captivating display piece. Its unique combination of beauty and rarity ensures it will be treasured by fossil collectors and natural history enthusiasts alike.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive.