VERY RARE Heteromorph Ammonite Scaphites Desmoscaphites balsleri, Santonian, Cretaceous: Montana, USA – Genuine Fossil with COA

Description

This VERY RARE Heteromorph Ammonite specimen, identified as Scaphites Desmoscaphites balsleri, is a remarkable fossil from the Santonian stage of the Cretaceous period. It was discovered in the Pierre Shales and Fox Hills Sandstone formations of Montana, USA, offering a unique glimpse into the marine life that thrived during the Late Cretaceous. With its exceptional preservation and distinctive features, this ammonite is highly sought after by collectors and paleontologists alike.

Geology and Fossil Type

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Species: Scaphites Desmoscaphites balsleri
• Geological Stage: Santonian, Cretaceous
• Depositional Environment: Marine
• Zone: Pierre Shales, Fox Hills Sandstone
• Family: Acanthoscaphitidae
• Superfamily: Ammonoidea
• Order: Ammonitida

Morphology Features

• Heteromorph Shape: This ammonite is from the heteromorph group, recognized for its distinctive spiral shape and elongated, irregular whorls. The Scaphites genus is known for these unique features, making it highly collectible.
• Visible Suture Lines: The fossil exhibits detailed suture lines—the divisions in the shell chambers that are important for identifying species within ammonites. These features are well-preserved and highlight the marine heritage of the specimen.
• Size and Dimensions: The fossil size is clearly visible in the photographs, with a scale cube of 1cm for accurate size assessment. Please refer to the photo for the full measurements of the specimen.

Notable Features

• Extremely Rare: The Scaphites Desmoscaphites balsleri ammonite is a rare species within the Santonian stage, making this fossil a valuable and unique addition to any collection.
• Exceptional Preservation: This fossil is highly prized for its superb preservation, showing the spiral structure of the ammonite along with its intricate chamber walls and well-defined whorls.
• Iridescent Properties: The fossil may display slight iridescent play of color, depending on the light, which further enhances its visual appeal.

Scientific and Historical Value

• Fossils from the Santonian stage of the Cretaceous period are crucial for understanding the marine ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous. Scaphites ammonites like Desmoscaphites balsleri provide insight into ancient marine life, helping paleontologists piece together the evolutionary timeline of ammonites.
• The Pierre Shales and Fox Hills Sandstone formations are known for their rich marine fossils, offering a unique look at ancient marine biodiversity during a period of significant geological change.

Size and Presentation

• Scale Cube: 1cm
• Full Size: Please refer to the photo for full size details. This fossil has been carefully chosen for its outstanding preservation and distinctive features.
• The photo shown is the actual specimen you will receive, ensuring that you get exactly what you see in the listing.

Key Selling Points

• 100% Genuine Fossil
• Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Extremely rare heteromorph ammonite from the Santonian stage of the Cretaceous period
• Found in the Pierre Shales and Fox Hills Sandstone formations, Montana, USA
• Beautifully preserved with well-defined spiral coiling, chamber walls, and suture lines
• Perfect for fossil collectors, scientific research, or as a unique display piece
• Ideal for marine life enthusiasts, ammonite collectors, or paleontology lovers

This VERY RARE Heteromorph Ammonite from the Santonian stage, Cretaceous period, is an exceptional fossil that offers ammonite collectors and paleontology enthusiasts a rare glimpse into ancient marine life. The specimen is beautifully preserved and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of Cretaceous marine history!