Description
Rare Nebrodites Iridescent Fossil Ammonite from Russia
This listing presents a rare and genuine Nebrodites iridescent Fossil Ammonite, originating from the Lower Kimmeridgian stage of the Jurassic period, discovered in the fossil-rich deposits of Russia. This specimen is notable for its natural iridescence, a feature highly prized by collectors for its unique shimmering colours and exceptional preservation. Iridescent ammonites such as this are scarce and represent both a stunning display piece and an important paleontological specimen.
The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference. Every fossil is carefully selected for quality and authenticity. As with all of our specimens, this ammonite is guaranteed 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Age and Provenance
This ammonite dates to the Lower Kimmeridgian stage of the Late Jurassic, approximately 157 – 155 million years ago. The Kimmeridgian is an essential part of the Upper Jurassic stratigraphy and is characterised by diverse ammonite faunas used extensively in global biostratigraphic correlation.
The fossil deposits of Russia are well known for producing exceptionally preserved ammonites, with some retaining their nacreous shell layers. In certain conditions, this nacre transforms into a natural iridescence, producing rainbow-like flashes of colour that remain visible millions of years later. Such specimens are both scientifically valuable and visually striking, making them highly desirable collector’s items.
Scientific Classification and Identification
This specimen is identified as Nebrodites, a genus within the family Aspidoceratidae, order Ammonitida, and superfamily Perisphinctoidea. Ammonites within this group are characterised by their evolute shells, strong ribbing, and sometimes tuberculate ornamentation.
Nebrodites is particularly important in Jurassic ammonite studies, as it occurs in Lower Kimmeridgian deposits across Europe and Russia, making it a valuable index genus for correlating strata. Its distinctive morphology ensures reliable identification, and iridescent examples such as this are rare and highly collectible.
Morphology and Distinctive Features
The morphological features of Nebrodites ammonites include:
- Evolute coiling, exposing earlier whorls clearly.
- Pronounced ribbing, giving structure and strength to the shell.
- Occasional tubercles or nodes, depending on growth stage.
- Brilliant iridescence, caused by preservation of nacreous shell layers.
This iridescence, displaying flashes of green, blue, purple, and red under light, is a rare natural phenomenon that greatly enhances the fossil’s visual appeal. The strong ribbing and symmetry of the whorls reflect adaptations for hydrodynamics and buoyancy control in Jurassic seas, allowing Nebrodites to thrive as a predator in its marine ecosystem.
Depositional Environment
The Russian deposits yielding Nebrodites ammonites formed in shallow marine environments during the Late Jurassic. Fine-grained sediments gently covered the shells of marine organisms, protecting them from decay. In some cases, mineralisation processes preserved the nacreous layers of ammonite shells, creating the stunning iridescence seen in this specimen. Such conditions are rare, which is why iridescent ammonites are so uncommon in the fossil record.
Collectible and Scientific Importance
Iridescent ammonites are among the most sought-after Jurassic fossils because they combine scientific significance with natural beauty. For paleontologists, Nebrodites provides critical data for understanding Kimmeridgian ammonite assemblages and for refining biostratigraphy. For collectors, the unique rainbow colours and rarity of iridescent preservation make each specimen a natural work of art.
This particular fossil is not just a piece of geological history—it is a display piece with exceptional aesthetic qualities, perfect for museum display, private collections, or as a remarkable gift for fossil enthusiasts.
Key Features of This Fossil
- Rare Nebrodites ammonite from Russia
- Late Jurassic (Lower Kimmeridgian stage), approx. 157 – 155 million years old
- Member of the Aspidoceratidae family, with strong ribbing and evolute form
- Preserved with natural iridescence, showing rainbow-like colours
- Important index fossil for the Lower Kimmeridgian stage
- Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- The exact specimen pictured is the one you will receive
This Nebrodites iridescent Fossil Ammonite is a rare and scientifically valuable specimen, combining outstanding preservation, natural beauty, and Jurassic heritage in a single extraordinary fossil.





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