#real nautilus fossil France

[uk-fossils]

Cenoceras Fossil Nautilus – Cretaceous – Saint-Maixent-l'École, France – Alice Purnell Collection – 100% Genuine with Certificate

This listing features a scientifically valuable and beautifully preserved fossil nautilus of the genus Cenoceras from the Cretaceous period, found in the fossil-rich region of Saint-Maixent-l'École, France. This piece is part of the distinguished Alice Purnell Collection, known for its museum-grade, historically documented fossil specimens.

Cenoceras is a genus of extinct nautiloid cephalopods that existed from the Late Triassic to the Cretaceous. These marine molluscs were characterised by smooth, rounded shells and simple suture patterns. They are considered close relatives of modern nautiluses but display evolutionary traits unique to ancient oceans. With a coiled shell composed of internal chambers, Cenoceras used gas regulation to navigate the seas as a free-floating predator and scavenger.

This specimen offers excellent preservation, highlighting the classic coiling and chamber arrangement of the nautilus shell.

Geological Context: The Cretaceous period (145–66 million years ago) was a time of high sea levels and thriving marine ecosystems across Europe. The region of Saint-Maixent-l'École in western France is well known for producing marine fossils from Cretaceous sediments, including ammonites, nautiloids, and bivalves. Fossils from this area often show excellent preservation due to the fine-grained limestone and marl formations.

Key Details:

Genus: Cenoceras (Fossil Nautilus)

Fossil Type: Extinct marine cephalopod

Age: Cretaceous (~145–66 million years ago)

Location Found: Saint-Maixent-l'École, France

Provenance: From the Alice Purnell Collection

Condition: Very good preservation with visible shell form and coiling

Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity

Scale: Please refer to 1cm scale cube in the photo for full sizing

Photo: The actual specimen shown is what you will receive

Scientific & Display Value: Cenoceras fossils offer insight into the evolutionary path of nautiloid cephalopods and their role in ancient marine ecosystems. This example, from the trusted Alice Purnell Collection, is ideal for display, education, or research. Its rarity and provenance add to its collectability and value.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Fast & Secure Shipping – Professionally packaged and dispatched promptly for safe delivery.

Add this elegant and historic marine fossil to your collection with this genuine Cenoceras nautilus fossil from the Cretaceous of Saint-Maixent-l'École, France.

[uk-fossils]

RARE 5" Cymatoceras neocomensis Fossil Nautilus – Aptian, Cretaceous – Seine-Maritime, France – Alice Purnell Collection

This listing features a rare and beautifully preserved fossil nautilus of the species Cymatoceras neocomensis from the Aptian Stage of the Early Cretaceous period, dating to approximately 125 to 113 million years ago. This exceptional specimen was found in Seine-Maritime, Normandy, France, and is part of the renowned Alice Purnell Collection, recognised for its museum-grade and scientifically documented fossils.

Cymatoceras is a genus of extinct nautiloid cephalopods, similar in appearance to the modern-day nautilus but differing in suture complexity and shell morphology. Cymatoceras neocomensis is distinguished by its rounded whorls, deep umbilicus, and distinctive ribbing pattern along the shell. These marine molluscs used gas-filled chambers in their shells for buoyancy, drifting through ancient seas as opportunistic feeders.

This particular specimen, measuring approximately 5 inches, shows excellent preservation of the coiling and ornamental features. It is a scientifically valuable and highly displayable fossil.

Geological Context: The Aptian Stage (125–113 million years ago) was a time of warm shallow seas, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. The region of Seine-Maritime in northern France is known for its fossiliferous limestone and marl deposits, producing exceptional marine fossils from the Early Cretaceous. These sediments offer insights into the evolution of marine faunas and palaeoenvironmental conditions.

Key Details:

Species: Cymatoceras neocomensis (Fossil Nautilus)

Fossil Type: Extinct marine nautiloid cephalopod

Age: Aptian Stage, Early Cretaceous (~125–113 million years ago)

Location Found: Seine-Maritime, France

Provenance: From the Alice Purnell Collection

Size: Approx. 5 inches (see 1cm scale cube in photo)

Condition: Exceptional preservation with visible shell details and natural form

Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity

Photo: The actual specimen shown is the one you will receive

Scientific & Collector Value: Fossils of Cymatoceras neocomensis are relatively rare and prized by both palaeontologists and collectors for their diagnostic features and importance in cephalopod evolution. Its inclusion in the Alice Purnell Collection adds further value, ensuring both authenticity and historical significance.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Fast & Secure Shipping – Professionally packaged and promptly shipped to ensure safe delivery.

Own a piece of ancient marine history with this rare 5" Cymatoceras neocomensis nautilus fossil from the Aptian of Seine-Maritime, France.