Ancient seas, Paleozoic period. ca. 400 million years ago. A gorgeous and large ammonite fossil with shimmering iridescence. The shell is nicely preserved, and the creamy white surface is polished to a glossy texture. One area is polished to reveal the beautiful layers and suture patterns which have formed in caramel brown hues. The central spiral is slightly recessed and then widens outward to the large chamber opening. The internal composition of the ammonite was once organic tissue - the body and tentacles - but is now a solid stone matrix. The ammonite spiral is mesmerizing and so aesthetically pleasing that it is often used to demonstrate the Fibonacci sequence in nature. The name "ammonite" came from Pliny the Elder after the Egyptian god Ammon, who was typically depicted wearing ram's horns that Pliny thought these fossils resembled. This is a beautiful example! Size: 5.25" L x 1.25" W x 4.25" H (13.3 cm x 3.2 cm x 10.8 cm); 6" H (15.2 cm) on included custom stand

Provenance: private Lake City, Colorado, USA collection, acquired 2020

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#161700

Stable hairline fissures. Chips to the shell exterior along the chamber opening lip. Polished to reveal the layers beneath. Areas of iridescence!