9.6" Large, Cut & Polished Ammonite Fossil - Deep Crystal Pockets

This is an impressive 9.6" wide, cut and polished Cleoniceras ammonite fossil from Madagascar. The interior chambers display striking natural mineralization, beautifully divided by crisp white calcite septa, with several chambers remaining hollow and lined with sparkling yellow-orange calcite crystals. Specimens of Cleoniceras reaching this size are quite uncommon, making this a standout example. This eye-catching display piece is accompanied by a matching pair of display stands.

About Ammonites

Ammonites were ancient marine cephalopods, similar to today's squids and octopuses, but with a defining feature: their distinctive, tightly coiled spiral shells. These shells, resembling those of modern nautiluses, served as both a protective home and a buoyancy aid, allowing ammonites to navigate the prehistoric seas with ease. First emerging around 240 million years ago in the Triassic Period, ammonites thrived for over 175 million years, adapting through numerous forms and sizes. As predatory creatures, they likely fed on smaller marine organisms, using their tentacles to capture prey. However, their long reign came to an end 65 million years ago at the close of the Cretaceous, coinciding with the mass extinction event that also eliminated the dinosaurs.

What an ammonite would have looked like while alive.
What an ammonite would have looked like while alive.
FOR SALE
$395
DETAILS
SPECIES
Cleoniceras sp.
LOCATION
Ambatolafia, Mahajanga Province, Madagascar
SIZE
9.6" wide (each half)
ITEM
#345539
GUARANTEE
We guarantee the authenticity of all of our specimens.