"Gem" Ammonite Fossil with Predation Marks. Placenticeras costatum. Late Cretaceous. Bearpaw Formation. Albert...

Description

"Gem" Ammonite Fossil with Predation Marks
Placenticeras costatum
Late Cretaceous
Bearpaw Formation
Alberta, Canada

The color, form, and condition of this Canadian Ammonite are without doubt top tier, but this fossil is not only about vivid hues and significant size. The prehistoric cephalopod measuring 13 inches (33 cm) has an abundance of major attributes. Heavily inflated, colorful over the entirety of both faces, and nearly ideal in shape, the superb example of Placenticeras costatum, with a specimen number D43 14, collected in June 2024, has electric iridescence, prominent tubercles, intricate suture patterns, and several rounded "marks" that really add to the story of this ancient-shelled creature. The circular dots found near the center of the fossil are thought to be predatory bite marks from a mosasaur - a marine reptile which also lived during the Cretaceous. This naturally "perfect" form is replete with vibrant hues of reds, oranges, golds, and greens as well as rarer blues and purples. Stabilized and polished, this has an acrylic lacquer and has AAA grade from the miner. Bright and beautiful, this "Gem" Ammonite has the unique preservation known as Ammolite which has been considered a gemstone by the World Jewellery Confederation since 1981. Out of the Bearpaw Formation - the singular locality for such incredible specimens - this fossil from the St. Mary River Valley dates back some 71 million years. Either side can be its primary display side, and this is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. This is not only a stunning fossil, it tells a story.
Measurements: 12.99 x 10.46 x 2.36 inches (33.00 x 26.56 x 6.00 cm)

More Information: The accompanying image is an artistic interpretation, based on knowledge from the fossil record and ancillary factors, of the potential appearance of the above extinct animal. Please note the rendering does not accompany the Lot.


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