RARE Lobokosmoceras Fossil Ammonite Iridescent Middle Callovian Jurassic Russia

Description

Rare Lobokosmoceras Ammonite from the Middle Jurassic

This listing features a rare Lobokosmoceras fossil ammonite, preserved in beautiful detail from the Middle Callovian stage of the Jurassic period. Discovered in the fossil-rich deposits of Mikhaylov, Russia, this ammonite dates back approximately 166 – 163 million years, when ancient seas covered much of the region. With its natural iridescent nacre, this specimen is both scientifically valuable and visually stunning, making it an excellent addition to any fossil collection.

Every fossil we offer is carefully selected for its authenticity and quality. The specimen pictured is the exact ammonite you will receive, and it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete assurance. A 1 cm scale cube has been included in the photos to give a clear idea of size and proportions.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite is from the Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic, an interval renowned for its diversity of ammonite species. The fossil-bearing beds of Mikhaylov, Russia, are internationally recognised for producing exceptionally well-preserved ammonites with fine shell detail and, in many cases, striking iridescence.

The marine sediments in which this ammonite was preserved were part of a shallow sea environment, where fine mud and silt rapidly buried shells, protecting them from erosion and allowing delicate details to fossilise. Ammonites such as Lobokosmoceras are crucial index fossils, used to date and correlate Jurassic strata across Europe and Russia.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Lobokosmoceras
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Stephanoceratoidea
• Family: Kosmoceratidae

Ammonites within the Kosmoceratidae family are notable for their ornate ribbing, strong ornamentation, and complex suture lines. This classification places Lobokosmoceras within an important lineage that thrived in the Middle Jurassic seas.

Morphological Features

This specimen of Lobokosmoceras displays several classic features that distinguish it within the ammonite family:

• Evolute shell structure, with earlier whorls clearly visible.
• Strong ribbing across the whorls, giving a bold and distinctive appearance.
• Intricate suture patterns, a hallmark of Kosmoceratid ammonites.
• Natural iridescence, where nacreous layers reflect light to produce shimmering rainbow hues.

Such features are highly sought after by collectors, not only for their scientific value but also for their aesthetic beauty.

Ecology and Lifestyle

Ammonites were marine cephalopods, relatives of modern squid and cuttlefish. Their coiled shells functioned as buoyancy devices, enabling them to move freely through the Jurassic seas. Lobokosmoceras would have been an active predator, likely feeding on small crustaceans and plankton.

The Middle Callovian seas in which it lived supported an abundance of marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs and pliosaurs, alongside diverse invertebrates including bivalves and gastropods. Ammonites like this one played a vital role in the food chain, both as predators and prey.

Collector’s Value

This Lobokosmoceras ammonite combines rarity, geological importance, and visual appeal. Its iridescent preservation enhances its desirability, making it not just a scientific specimen but also a natural work of art. Collectors prize these fossils for their ability to showcase the incredible biodiversity of the Jurassic period, while also serving as timeless display pieces.

Owning this ammonite allows you to hold a piece of Earth’s deep history, beautifully preserved for over 160 million years. Its authenticity, scientific relevance, and aesthetic qualities make it an exceptional choice for collectors, enthusiasts, or as a unique natural history gift.

Key Details

• Species: Lobokosmoceras ammonite
• Age: Jurassic, Middle Callovian (166 – 163 million years old)
• Origin: Mikhaylov, Russia
• Family: Kosmoceratidae
• Features: Evolute shell, ribbing, complex sutures, iridescent nacre
• Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
• The exact specimen pictured is the one you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube shown for reference

This fossil represents a rare and highly collectible example of Jurassic marine life, offering both scientific value and natural beauty for your collection.