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Iridescent Ammonite Fossil
About the Item
Large spectacular iridescent ammonite fossil.
75 Million y/o
A magnificent example of one of the most spectacular fossils. A large and intensely vibrant ammonite, Placenticeras costatum, from the Bearpaw formation, Alberta, Canada, dating to the late Cretaceous period, around 75 million years before present. The surface of this long extinct marine creature has transformed over millennia into a dazzling, iridescent gemstone, its colours shifting in the light from vivid reds to emerald greens, to flickers of orange and gold, purples and brilliant blues. This effect is a natural result of the fossilisation process, a unique phenomenon only found on ammonites recovered from this location.
The ammonite, an extinct branch of the mollusc family, related to the modern octopus, takes its name from an ancient belief, recorded by Pliny the Elder, that their fossilised remains were in fact the horns of the ram-horned Egyptian god Ammon, which would bring good fortune to the owner. Most fossils of this kind are heavily restored or pastiches, and their colour is often artificially enhanced with varnishes. This example is completely preserved, with its unrestored original surface - a superb piece of natural history.
Most fossils of this kind are heavily restored or pastiches and their colour is artificially enhanced with varnishes. This is a completely preserved, natural piece with original surface. Mounted on a bespoke bronze base.
Measures : Diameter: 42 cm.
Height with stand: 47 cm
Provenance:
Discovered in the Blood Reserve, Alberta, Canada.
- Dimensions:Height: 16.54 in (42 cm)Diameter: 16.54 in (42 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 75 Million y/o
- Condition:
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
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Associations
LAPADA - The Association of Arts & Antiques DealersInternational Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' AssociationsThe British Antique Dealers' Association
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: London, United Kingdom
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 14 days of delivery.
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