This Douvilleiceras Ammonite:
Weight - 10 ounces
Length - 3.75 inches
Height - 2.5 inches
Width at mouth - 1.75 inches
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 Ammonia from the east African island nation of Madagascar is in superb condition with skilled handling bringing it to this point. Each one in my store has a slightly different story to tell.
This fossil has a thin coating of gray sediment deposits on its surface. This is not, however, enough to obscure the beauty underneath. Wonderful and exotic suture patterns are clearly visible. These sutures have an oak leaf pattern of sophisticated interlocking patterns. This clear detail, the definition of the spine, and the oveall fine definition makes this a superior fossil for its price. The common name 'Tractor' is from its resemblance to heavy treads on the tires of 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. Again, this ancient sea animal comes from Madagascar and dates from the Early Cretaceous period, Albian stage (~100 to 113 million years ago).
Without a doubt ammonites and nautiloids are favorite fossils. The sophistication of the form of these fossils is a good indication why they more recent . It took millions upon millions of years to evolve this sort of complexity in their chamber designs.