A stunning example of an iridescent ammonite fossil of the species Psiloceras planorbis from North Somerset, UK.
The piece of limestone matrix measures 48 mm (1.9 inches) tall and contains a little ammonite, which measures 23 mm. The ammonite is well preserved and has been prepared out of the rock to reveal the shell, which displays some subtle iridescent colours that change depending on the angle that the fossil is viewed at with a nice red sheen. There are flashes of copper and gold in the shell. The fossil weighs 45 grams and has a cut flat base to allow it to stand freely for display. A perfect little fossil for a gift or stocking filler.
Around 200 million years old (Hettangian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection. These fossils are preserved in the same way as the more famous Canadian "ammolite", which is turned into valuable gemstones due to the stunning iridescence.