Rare Neocosmoceras sayni Ammonite Fossil Berriasian Cretaceous LACISTERNE BOISSET GARD France

Description

Rare Neocosmoceras sayni Ammonite Fossil – Berriasian, Early Cretaceous

This rare Neocosmoceras sayni ammonite fossil originates from the Lacisterne Boisset region in Gard, France, and dates to the Berriasian Stage of the Early Cretaceous, around 145–139 million years ago. Specimens of this genus and species are highly sought after due to their rarity, distinctive morphology, and scientific importance in Early Cretaceous stratigraphy. The fossil you see photographed is the exact specimen you will receive, complete with a Certificate of Authenticity to confirm its genuine origin. A 1cm scale cube is included in the photos for precise sizing.

Geological Context

• Geological Period: Cretaceous
• Stage: Berriasian (earliest stage of the Cretaceous)
• Age: ~145–139 million years ago
• Provenance: Lacisterne Boisset, Gard, France

The Berriasian Stage marks the very beginning of the Cretaceous period and is one of the most important divisions in stratigraphy. It follows the Tithonian of the Late Jurassic, marking the transition between two great geological eras. Fossils such as Neocosmoceras sayni are critical for biostratigraphic correlation, as they serve as key index fossils, allowing paleontologists to date rock layers and reconstruct ancient environments.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Perisphinctoidea
• Family: Neocomitidae
• Genus: Neocosmoceras
• Species: Neocosmoceras sayni

Morphological Features

The shell of Neocosmoceras sayni is particularly striking, showcasing features that make it both a collector’s item and a scientifically significant specimen:

• Whorls: Involute coiling with a strong, rounded profile.
• Ribbing: Bold ribs radiating across the whorls, often bifurcating, giving the shell an ornate appearance.
• Venter: Typically keeled, aiding in hydrodynamics.
• Suture Lines: Complex and highly detailed, characteristic of ammonites in this family.

These morphological characteristics highlight the adaptation of this ammonite to its marine environment and link it to evolutionary developments at the dawn of the Cretaceous.

Paleoenvironment and Significance

During the Early Cretaceous, the Gard region formed part of the shallow seas influenced by the Tethys Ocean. These seas were warm and biologically productive, supporting ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, echinoids, and marine reptiles. Ammonites like Neocosmoceras sayni thrived as swift, nektonic predators, using their chambered shells for buoyancy control while preying on smaller marine organisms.

The significance of Neocosmoceras sayni lies not only in its rarity but also in its role as an index fossil for the Berriasian Stage. Its presence in specific strata allows geologists to define precise time intervals and provides a global standard for correlating Early Cretaceous deposits.

Key Details

• Species: Neocosmoceras sayni
• Age: Early Cretaceous, Berriasian Stage (~145–139 million years ago)
• Locality: Lacisterne Boisset, Gard, France
• Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen with Certificate of Authenticity
• Display Value: Exact fossil photographed; 1cm scale cube for size reference

Collectability and Display Value

This rare Neocosmoceras sayni ammonite fossil is an excellent addition for collectors of fine ammonites, students of paleontology, and those fascinated by the transition from the Jurassic into the Cretaceous. Its rarity, scientific importance, and aesthetic qualities make it a standout piece for both display and research.

Owning this fossil provides not only a window into the earliest Cretaceous seas but also a direct connection to one of the defining ammonite lineages of the period. A rare and scientifically valuable specimen, it represents a fascinating era in Earth’s history more than 140 million years ago.