Irridescent Ammonite
Age - 145 / 65 Million Years Old
Description - Squid like creatures akin to todays nautilus living within the body of the shell. These are fossils of the shell.
Discovered - Madagascar
Measures Roughly 3 1/2 Each
- Each piece will differ in size, shape, color, characteristics, and other aspects.
Iridescent ammonites are fossilized shells of a group of extinct marine mollusks known as ammonites, which existed from around 400 to 65 million years ago during the Mesozoic era. These shells are distinguished by their unique iridescence, which makes them appear to shimmer with a rainbow of colors when viewed from different angles. This iridescence is caused by the way light reflects off the layers of nacre (mother-of-pearl) inside the shell, creating a stunning visual effect that has captivated scientists and collectors alike for centuries.
The colors of iridescent ammonites vary depending on the species, with some displaying a range of hues from blues and greens to purples and reds. The iridescence is caused by the thin layers of nacre that make up the shell, which are composed of microscopic platelets that are arranged in a regular pattern. When light hits these platelets, it is refracted and reflected, producing the iridescent effect. This effect is similar to the way light is reflected off the surface of a soap bubble or a peacock feather.
Iridescent ammonites have been prized by collectors and researchers for their beauty and their scientific value. They provide important clues about the ancient oceans and the creatures that inhabited them, and can help scientists reconstruct the evolution and ecology of these animals. Today, iridescent ammonites are highly sought after by collectors, and are often used in jewelry and other decorative items. However, due to their rarity and the fact that they are fossils, they are also considered to be precious artifacts that must be preserved and protected for future generations to appreciate.
