Exquisitely Polished Fossil Nautilus, exhibiting silicified internal chambers and subtle iridescence A magnificent large fossilized Nautilus shell, meticulously cut and polished to reveal its ancient - Height: 245 mm - Width: 195 mm- 4817 g - (1)






Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
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Description from the seller
Albian, Early Cretaceous — This imposing specimen of fossil nautilus, from Madagascar and dating to the Albian (Early Cretaceous), represents a notable fragment of prehistoric marine life. The meticulous polishing has transformed the ancient shell into an object of refined beauty, highlighting every detail of its internal structure and the richness of its natural tones. The specimen has been expertly cut and polished to reveal the complex internal planispiral architecture, with its septa and the clearly defined suture line. The silicification process has preserved the shell’s organic matter, turning it into mineral and giving the surface a delicate mother-of-pearl luster, visible especially in the inner sections. The natural colorations range from warm beige to earthy grays, enriched by subtle veining and ferruginous inclusions that draw an intricate lattice on the glossy surface. This colour palette, sober yet fascinating, helps create a piece that is visually harmonious and balanced, catching the eye and inviting observation. The sample is presented on a solid wooden base with a specially designed iron support, which enhances its form and allows optimal stability for display. This mount not only facilitates its placement but elevates the nautilus to a true decorative element, suitable to adorn any environment, from a modern study to a natural history collection. A piece of great value both for the fossil collector and for the interior design enthusiast, this fossil nautilus is not merely a geological specimen, but a natural work of art that tells millions of years of Earth’s history, offering a tangible bridge with the planet’s deep past.
Seller's Story
Albian, Early Cretaceous — This imposing specimen of fossil nautilus, from Madagascar and dating to the Albian (Early Cretaceous), represents a notable fragment of prehistoric marine life. The meticulous polishing has transformed the ancient shell into an object of refined beauty, highlighting every detail of its internal structure and the richness of its natural tones. The specimen has been expertly cut and polished to reveal the complex internal planispiral architecture, with its septa and the clearly defined suture line. The silicification process has preserved the shell’s organic matter, turning it into mineral and giving the surface a delicate mother-of-pearl luster, visible especially in the inner sections. The natural colorations range from warm beige to earthy grays, enriched by subtle veining and ferruginous inclusions that draw an intricate lattice on the glossy surface. This colour palette, sober yet fascinating, helps create a piece that is visually harmonious and balanced, catching the eye and inviting observation. The sample is presented on a solid wooden base with a specially designed iron support, which enhances its form and allows optimal stability for display. This mount not only facilitates its placement but elevates the nautilus to a true decorative element, suitable to adorn any environment, from a modern study to a natural history collection. A piece of great value both for the fossil collector and for the interior design enthusiast, this fossil nautilus is not merely a geological specimen, but a natural work of art that tells millions of years of Earth’s history, offering a tangible bridge with the planet’s deep past.
Seller's Story
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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
