RARE Peltoceratoides arduennensis iridescent Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Upper Callovian Russia

Description

Rare Peltoceratoides arduennensis Iridescent Fossil Ammonite from Russia

This listing features a rare and genuine Peltoceratoides arduennensis iridescent Fossil Ammonite, dating from the Upper Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic, discovered in the world-renowned fossil deposits of the Volga River region, Russia. This stunning specimen displays natural iridescence, a rare and highly sought-after feature where nacreous shell layers reflect rainbow-like colours, making it both a scientifically valuable and visually captivating fossil.

The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for precise size reference. Every fossil we sell is carefully selected for authenticity and preservation. As always, this piece is guaranteed 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite originates from the Upper Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 164 – 161 million years ago. The Callovian was a time of great ammonite diversity, with many species evolving rapidly and spreading across vast marine regions.

The Volga River region of Russia is one of the most celebrated fossil localities in the world. Its fine-grained marine deposits preserve ammonites with exquisite detail, often including nacreous layers that produce natural iridescence. These conditions make Volga ammonites highly prized among collectors and scientifically important for Jurassic stratigraphy.

Scientific Classification and Identification

This specimen is identified as Peltoceratoides arduennensis, belonging to the family Perisphinctidae, within the superfamily Perisphinctoidea and the order Ammonitida. Members of this genus are recognised by their evolute shells with distinct ribbing and elegant symmetry.

The species Peltoceratoides arduennensis is an important index fossil for the Callovian stage, aiding geologists and paleontologists in correlating rock layers across Europe and Russia. Its rarity and distinctive morphology, combined with its natural iridescence, make it a highly desirable addition to both private and institutional collections.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

The morphological features of Peltoceratoides arduennensis include:

• Evolute coiling, with exposed earlier whorls.
• Strong ribbing radiating across the shell surface, characteristic of the genus.
• Graceful, compressed whorl section, giving the fossil an elegant and symmetrical form.
• Brilliant iridescence, caused by preserved nacreous shell layers, flashing in colours from greens and blues to reds and purples.

This combination of robust ribbing and iridescent preservation makes the specimen not only scientifically important but also a natural work of art.

Depositional Environment

The Volga River deposits where this ammonite was found represent shallow marine environments that existed during the Jurassic period. Fine silts and muds accumulated on the seabed, quickly covering ammonite shells and creating conditions that preserved both shell structure and nacre. The unique chemical composition of these sediments allowed the nacreous layer to fossilise while retaining its optical properties, producing the striking iridescence seen today.

Collectible and Scientific Importance

Specimens of Peltoceratoides arduennensis with natural iridescence are extremely rare and highly valued by collectors. Their combination of geological significance, aesthetic beauty, and rarity makes them exceptional display fossils. For scientists, they provide important evidence for ammonite distribution and biostratigraphy during the Callovian stage of the Jurassic.

Owning such a fossil is to preserve both a scientifically significant ammonite and a naturally occurring piece of prehistoric artistry.

Key Features of This Fossil

• Rare Peltoceratoides arduennensis ammonite from Volga, Russia
• Middle Jurassic (Upper Callovian stage), approx. 164 – 161 million years old
• Member of the Perisphinctidae family, with ribbed, evolute shell morphology
• Preserved with natural iridescence, producing rainbow-like colours
• Important index fossil for Callovian stratigraphy
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• The exact specimen pictured is the one you will receive

This Peltoceratoides arduennensis iridescent Fossil Ammonite is a rare and extraordinary specimen, combining geological importance, scientific value, and breathtaking natural beauty in a single piece.