Stoliczkaia clavigera Ammonite Fossil Cretaceous Lower Cenomanian France Genuine Specimen with COA

Description

Stoliczkaia clavigera Ammonite Fossil from Thorne, France

This authentic Stoliczkaia clavigera ammonite fossil is a striking specimen from the Lower Cenomanian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in the fossil-rich deposits of Thorne, France. It represents a rare and scientifically valuable ammonite species, showcasing the natural artistry of ribbing and shell formation that has survived for over 98 million years. Carefully chosen for both quality and preservation, this piece is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its status as a 100% genuine fossil. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for precise size reference.

Geological Age and Origin

This fossil originates from the Lower Cenomanian stage of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 100.5 to 98 million years ago. The Cenomanian marks the beginning of the Late Cretaceous, a time of global sea level rise that led to widespread shallow marine environments across Europe. The region around Thorne in France is well known for its chalk and limestone formations of this age, which have yielded an abundance of exceptionally preserved ammonites, making it a classic fossil locality for collectors and researchers alike.

Taxonomy and Classification

Stoliczkaia clavigera belongs to the order Ammonitida, within the superfamily Acanthoceratoidea and the family Acanthoceratidae. The genus Stoliczkaia is highly regarded for its distinctive shell morphology and is an important biostratigraphic marker within the Lower Cenomanian. Species such as S. clavigera play a key role in identifying and correlating geological strata, making them scientifically significant fossils that are widely studied in Cretaceous paleontology.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

This fossil clearly displays the diagnostic features of Stoliczkaia clavigera. The shell exhibits prominent radial ribbing, strong tubercles positioned along the flanks and ventrolateral regions, and a moderately evolute coiling. These features not only give the fossil a bold and attractive appearance but also reflect evolutionary adaptations that strengthened the shell and influenced hydrodynamic performance. The nodose ornamentation in particular is characteristic of the genus and makes this specimen a valuable addition to any ammonite collection.

Depositional Environment and Paleoecology

During the Cenomanian, Thorne and surrounding regions were submerged under warm, shallow seas that supported abundant marine life. Stoliczkaia clavigera would have been a nektonic predator, actively swimming in the water column and preying upon smaller marine organisms such as crustaceans and mollusks. Its abundance in fossil beds reflects its success as part of the thriving marine ecosystem of the Cretaceous, a time when ammonites were among the dominant cephalopods in the world’s oceans.

Collector’s Value and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil is not only a scientifically significant specimen but also a highly attractive display piece. Its ribbing, tubercles, and overall shell form are clearly preserved, offering an excellent opportunity for study and appreciation. Each fossil we sell is photographed individually, ensuring you receive the exact specimen pictured. The accompanying scale rule provides accurate sizing, and every piece comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

This Stoliczkaia clavigera ammonite fossil is a genuine relic of Earth’s history, over 98 million years old, and an outstanding example of a classic Cenomanian ammonite from France. It is ideal for collectors, educators, or as a striking natural history display.