Douvilleiceras monile Ammonite Fossil Lower Albian Cretaceous Madagascar Genuine Specimen Authentic


£ 24.00

DOUVILLEICERAS MONILE FOSSIL AMMONITE

This listing offers a beautiful Douvilleiceras monile ammonite fossil from the
Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, dating to approximately 113–110 million years ago. Found in Madagascar, this ammonite is an outstanding example of the dramatic ornamentation and preservation for which Madagascan fossils are renowned. With its bold ribbing and nodular shell features, this specimen represents both a scientifically significant fossil and a striking collector’s piece.

Every fossil we sell is 100% genuine and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The images show the actual specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube and rule squares provided for accurate size reference.

GEOLOGICAL CONTEXT AND AGE

This ammonite comes from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous, when Madagascar was located along the margins of the vast Tethys Ocean. At this time, the island was submerged beneath shallow tropical seas, providing ideal conditions for marine life to flourish. These environments supported a rich diversity of ammonites, belemnites, crustaceans, and fish, many of which were rapidly buried in fine sediments that aided in their exceptional preservation.

The Madagascan deposits are world-famous for yielding ammonites with shells preserved in fine detail, sometimes even showing iridescence or original shell structure. Specimens such as Douvilleiceras monile are prized both for their scientific value and their aesthetic qualities.

MORPHOLOGY AND DISTINCTIVE FEATURES

Douvilleiceras monile belongs to the family Douvilleiceratidae, within the superfamily Desmoceratoidea of the order Ammonitida. This genus is particularly well known for its heavily ornamented shells. The species monile is characterised by its thick, irregular ribs and strong tubercles (knobs) arranged across the shell surface. These nodules often give the fossil a chain-like appearance, which inspired the species name "monile," meaning "necklace" in Latin.

The shell is typically evolute, meaning earlier whorls are exposed, and the ribs sweep across the flanks to the venter (outer rim). Such robust ornamentation provided the ammonite with both structural reinforcement and defensive adaptations against predators. The striking, rugged appearance makes Douvilleiceras monile one of the most recognisable ammonites from Madagascar.

SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE

Ammonites like Douvilleiceras monile are highly significant in biostratigraphy, the study of dating and correlating rock layers using fossils. Their distinctive morphology allows geologists to identify precise intervals of geological time. Douvilleiceras monile is an important index fossil for the Lower Albian stage, helping to refine the global stratigraphic record of the Early Cretaceous.

Its strong ornamentation also provides insight into ammonite evolution, demonstrating how shell morphology adapted to environmental pressures. The Madagascan specimens in particular have contributed greatly to palaeontological research, helping to document the diversity and distribution of ammonites during the Early Cretaceous.

COLLECTOR AND DISPLAY VALUE

This Douvilleiceras monile ammonite fossil is a superb specimen that would enhance any collection. Its bold ribbing and nodular ornamentation give it dramatic visual appeal, making it ideal for display. As a scientifically important species and a striking natural relic, it holds great value for both private collectors and educational institutions.

Whether you are a seasoned fossil enthusiast, a beginner collector, or someone looking for a unique natural history display piece, this ammonite will stand out as a highlight in any collection.

YOUR GUARANTEE OF AUTHENTICITY


• 100% genuine Douvilleiceras monile ammonite fossil from Madagascar
• Geological age: Lower Albian stage, Early Cretaceous (approx. 113–110 million years ago)
• Family: Douvilleiceratidae, Order: Ammonitida
• Distinctive ornamentation: heavily ribbed with nodular tubercles
• Exact specimen shown in photographs (no stock images used)
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Scale cube and rule squares = 1 cm (see photos for accurate sizing)

This Douvilleiceras monile ammonite fossil from Madagascar is both a scientifically valuable and visually stunning specimen, making it an exceptional addition to any fossil collection.