Ancient Seas, North America, Paleozoic period. ca. 400 million years ago. A vibrant and large ammonite fossil that has opalized and developed shimmering iridescence from ammolite formations. The shell is nicely preserved, and the brown surface is polished to a glossy texture. The fossilization process can result in the "opalization" which creates ammolite, the gemstone formed by ammonite shells. Here the ammolite displays gorgeous red, orange, and green hues across the surface. Other areas reveal the beautiful suture patterns that are below the surface but have been exposed and present fern like patterns. The central spiral is slightly recessed and 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. This is an outstanding example of ammolite formation on this fossilized creature! Size: 1.3" L x 5.5" W (3.3 cm x 14 cm)

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010

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#164097

Professionally prepared and polished. Losses to ammolite surface and ammonite shell, especially around chamber opening. The surface has stable hairline fissures across much of the shell. Clear fixative coating has been added to protect the shell and fill in any gaps. Recessed spiral is unpolished on both sides and has losses to exterior shell surface.