Rare Peruvian Ammonite Cluster - Jurassic Fossil

Journey Back in Time: Exceptional Jurassic Ammonites from Peru

Size:  139mm x 90mm x 38mm Approximately

Weight:  602gram

This exceptional fossil features a cluster of Asteroceras obtusum ammonites, meticulously preserved in their original matrix. Hailing from Huancayo, Peru, this piece is a rare find, particularly as Peruvian ammonites are infrequently encountered in the fossil market. This specimen comes from an old, established collection, adding to its provenance and desirability.

Ammonites are an extinct group of marine mollusk animals belonging to the class Cephalopoda. Their closest living relatives include octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish. Ammonites are characterized by their distinctive spiral-shelled external skeletons, which are often beautifully ornamented with ribs and nodes. They lived in the ancient oceans for millions of years, from the Devonian period (around 400 million years ago) until the end of the Cretaceous period (about 66 million years ago), when they became extinct alongside the dinosaurs.

The presence of ammonites in Peru, like in many other parts of the world, is a testament to the geological history of the region. During the Mesozoic Era (the age of dinosaurs), much of Peru was submerged under a vast ancient ocean. As ammonites died, their shells settled on the seafloor and were gradually buried by layers of sediment. Over millions of years, these sediments compacted and cemented, eventually turning into the rock matrix we see today. The ammonite shells themselves underwent a process of permineralization, where their original organic material was replaced by minerals, preserving their intricate forms as fossils.

This specific Asteroceras obtusum ammonite cluster dates back to the Early Jurassic period, making it approximately 190 to 199 million years old. The matrix is a dark, fine-grained sedimentary rock, likely a shale or mudstone, which perfectly contrasts with the lighter-colored ammonite fossils, highlighting their intricate details. A striking white calcite vein runs through the matrix, adding another layer of geological interest to this already fascinating specimen.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of ancient Peruvian history! Add this remarkable Asteroceras obtusum ammonite cluster to your collection today and bring the mysteries of the Jurassic seas into your home.

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