Wagnericeras wagneri Ammonite Fossil Upper Bathonian Normandy France

Description

Wagnericeras wagneri Ammonite Fossil from Normandy

Genuine Upper Bathonian Specimen

This carefully selected Wagnericeras wagneri ammonite is a genuine fossil from Deauville in Calvados, Normandy, France. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing its shell form, matrix, colour and individual preservation to be examined before purchase. Please refer to the sizing photograph for full dimensions and proportions.

Upper Bathonian Geological Age

The specimen dates from the Upper Bathonian Stage of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 167 to 166 million years ago. During this interval, shallow seas covered extensive parts of western Europe and were connected with the Tethys Ocean. Warm marine waters supported ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, brachiopods and other organisms. Sediment accumulating on the seabed buried some shells and allowed them to enter the fossil record.

Normandy contains important Jurassic sedimentary sequences, and the coastal region around Calvados has long been studied for its fossil-bearing rocks. A specimen from a documented locality such as Deauville retains meaningful geological context and represents the marine environment that existed there during the Middle Jurassic.

Species and Shell Characteristics

Wagnericeras wagneri belongs to the Ammonoidea, the extinct group of coiled marine cephalopods related to modern squid, cuttlefish, octopus and nautilus. The shell contained internal chambers separated by septa. The animal occupied the final body chamber, while the chambered portion and a connecting siphuncle assisted buoyancy control.

Wagnericeras is associated with Bathonian ammonite groups within the order Ammonitida and is recognised by its coiling, whorl proportions and ribbed ornamentation. Depending on growth stage and preservation, ribs may strengthen or divide across the flanks. The umbilical width, whorl section, ventral form and rib pattern provide important evidence for identification.

Biostratigraphy and Scientific Interest

Ammonites evolved rapidly and were widely distributed through Jurassic seas. Characteristic species are used as index fossils to establish biozones and correlate marine rock layers between different regions. Wagnericeras is especially relevant to Bathonian stratigraphy, so an identified and localised specimen offers scientific interest in addition to its visual appeal.

Natural Fossil Preservation

After death, the ammonite shell settled onto the seabed and became buried by sediment. Continued burial led to compaction and mineralisation. Original shell material may remain, be replaced by minerals or dissolve to leave an internal mould. Natural fissures, irregular edges, attached matrix, incomplete areas, colour variation and weathering are expected in authentic fossils and record their geological history.

Collecting and Display

This French ammonite is ideal for a Middle Jurassic fossil collection, geological teaching set, natural history display or cabinet of curiosities. Its named species and Normandy locality make it particularly appealing to collectors of European ammonites. It is also a thoughtful gift for a geology student or anyone fascinated by prehistoric marine life. The actual specimen pictured is the fossil supplied.

Certificate and Care

This fossil is genuine and includes a generic Certificate of Authenticity card with a lifetime guarantee. Handle it over a soft surface, supporting both the fossil and its matrix. Avoid impact, strong chemicals, washing and rapid changes in temperature or humidity. Display it in a dry, stable environment and remove dust gently with a soft dry brush.