Pyritized Ammonite

A lovely and lustrous Ammonite fossil from the Ryazan region of western Russia. This Jurassic Period ammonite fossil has been replaced by the mineral Pyrite. Druzy crystals of Pyrite can even be seen inside the hollow growth chambers of the ammonite shell! Ammonites are an extinct variety of sea creatures that swam the shallow seas millions of years ago. As the shell fossilizes, it is naturally replaced by the mineral pyrite, creating shiny and golden colorations. Part of the shell naturally dissolved away, exposing the amazing pyritized growth chambers inside! The top of this specimen has been lightly polished.