Douvilleiceras is a genus of ammonites from the Middle to Late Cretaceous. Its fossils have been found worldwide, in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America. This Douvilleiceras Ammonite from the east African island nation of Madagascar is in superb condition with skilled handling bringing it to this point. It is also very uncommon for it to be available for sale. The opening and mouth has been cleaned of matrix to reveal magnificent, undamaged detail, including the siphuncle. Many ammonites for sale have their mouths cut flat. Higher quality ammonite like this one have had the sutures of the mouth preserved, yet are no more in price. The animal is filled with gold yellow calcite stone. The oak leaf suture patterns are different from other species of Ammonite and unique to Douvilleiceras. The common name of Tractor is because of its resemblance to heavy treads on the tires of the farming equipment.
The agatized material has replaced the original flesh of this animal down to the molecular level with an outstanding result. This fossil is of high display quality for an office or show case in the home. It also makes a great gift. This ancient sea animal comes from Madagascar and dates from the Early Cretaceous period, Albian stage (~100 to 113.0 million years ago).
Without a doubt ammonites and nautiloids are my favorite fossils. They are obtainable for us average folk and their beauty is something to behold. The oak leaf sutures are intense, clear and detailed. The opalescent layer is beautiful and polished. The sophistication of the form of these fossils is a good indication why they are younger and not 450 million years old. It took million upon millions of years to evolve this sort of complexity in their chamber designs.
The acrylic stand for exhibiting this ammonite is included.
This Douvilleiceras Ammonite:
Weight - 10 ounces
Length - 3.5 inches
Width of body - 2.75 inches
Depth at mouth - 1.75 inches