Ammonites are arguably the most widely known fossil, possessing a ribbed spiral-form shell. They belong to a group of predators known as cephalopods, which includes living relatives such as the octopus, squid, cuttlefish and nautilus. Their name comes from the spiral shape their shells exhibit--Pliny the Elder referred to them as ammonis cornua ("horns of Ammon") because the Egyptian God Ammon was often depicted with ram's horns. These creatures lived in the seas between 240 - 65 million years ago, when they became extinct along with the dinosaurs. According to Wikipedia, fossilized ammonites were believed to be petrified snakes in medieval Europe.  People thought it was evidence of Saint Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland. Invest in this authentic natural ammonite fossil specimen for your science classroom. Also makes a great gift for your favorite fossil collector!

Please be aware that this is a natural fossil and as such each piece is one of a kind! The one you receive may not be exactly the same as the one pictured but it will be similar. Price is per each specimen, and each piece comes in an attractive storage box. They come in irregular shapes, sizes and weights. Average size is between 4 inches to 5 inches in length.

Box Size: 5.00in (12.70cm) x 5.00in (12.70cm) x 3.00in (7.62cm)

Recommended for ages 12 and older.

Weight: 3 lb 0 oz ( 1.36 kg )