Miocene Fossil Pectinidae – Natural Shell Aggregate –...

Suggestive fossil aggregate composed of numerous shells belonging to the family Pectinidae, originating from France and preserved within a Miocene marine sedimentary matrix. The specimen shows several fossil valves, some nearly complete, others partially overlapped or incorporated into the matrix. Their irregular arrangement preserves the natural appearance of an ancient shell assemblage formed on the sea floor through the action of currents, waves, and progressive sedimentation. The shells display the characteristic fan-shaped morphology of pectinids, with radially well-developed ribs extending from the hinge area toward the outer margin. Thin concentric growth lines are also visible, documenting the successive growth stages of the animal. The different tones, from cream and beige to gray-blue hues, are linked to fossilization processes and the chemical conditions of the sediment in which the shells remained buried for millions of years. The specimen comes from the famous French faluns, fossiliferous marine deposits in western France particularly rich in mollusks and other marine organisms. During the Miocene, between about 16 and 7 million years ago, these areas were occupied by shallow seas connected to the Atlantic. The presence of multiple shells in the same matrix makes this specimen particularly interesting from a paleontological standpoint, because it preserves a true fossil association and not a single isolated organism. The sample is mounted on a dark wooden base with a metal support, allowing vertical display and highlighting the structure of the shells and the matrix. An example suitable for both a paleontological collection and as a decorative element for Wunderkammer, studies, and contemporary environments. Family: Pectinidae Period: Miocene Indicated age: about 7–16 million years Origin: France Type: natural aggregate of fossil shells on matrix Support: wooden base with metal structure

Estimate:$448.09

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