Oval Orthoceras Fossil Box
Orthoceras Fossil Box
Origin: Morocco
Geological Period: Silurian to Devonian Periods (approx. 443 to 359 million years ago)
This exquisite decorative box is crafted from a solid piece of limestone densely packed with the fossilized remains of Orthoceras, an extinct genus of ancient cephalopods. Orthoceras, meaning "straight horn," refers to their distinctive elongated, conical shells that could range from a few centimeters to over a meter in length.
Paleontology: Orthoceras were marine invertebrates, predatory animals that propelled themselves through the water using jet propulsion and captured prey with their tentacles. Their shells were chambered, and they regulated buoyancy by filling these chambers with gas or liquid. These creatures were incredibly abundant in the ancient oceans, particularly during the Silurian and Devonian periods, making their fossilized remains a common and striking find.
Origin and Craftsmanship: The richly fossiliferous limestone used to create this box originates from geological formations in Morocco, a region renowned worldwide for its exceptionally well-preserved Orthoceras fossils. Moroccan artisans skillfully cut, shape, and polish these fossil-laden stones to reveal the intricate patterns of the ancient shells, transforming them into functional and beautiful objects like this box. The natural variations in the stone and the visible cross-sections and outlines of the Orthoceras provide a tangible connection to prehistoric marine life.
Dimensions:
- Length: Approximately 5 - 6 inches (12.7 - 15.2 cm)
- Width: Approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm)
This fossil box serves as a remarkable example of nature's artistry and human craftsmanship, bridging millions of years of Earth's history with contemporary design.