Orthoceras Fossil Plaque – Genuine Nautiloid Cephalopod – Cretaceous Fossil from Kem Kem Basin Morocco – With Certificate of Authenticity

Description Add a captivating piece of natural history to your collection with this genuine Orthoceras fossil plaque, sourced from the world-famous Kem Kem Basin in Morocco. This plaque features the fossilised remains of an extinct marine cephalopod—Orthoceras, one of Earth’s oldest ocean predators. Fossil & Geological Information: Specimen: Orthoceras (Nautiloid Cephalopod) Fossil Plaque Age: Cretaceous Period (~145 to 66 million years ago) Location: Kem Kem Basin, Morocco Phylum: Mollusca Class: Cephalopoda Subclass: Nautiloidea Scale Cube = 1cm – See photo for full sizing Certificate of Authenticity Included What is Orthoceras? Orthoceras is an extinct genus of nautiloid cephalopods that thrived in the world’s oceans from the Ordovician to Triassic periods, with species persisting for hundreds of millions of years. These marine animals are related to modern squid, octopus, cuttlefish, and nautilus, but are distinguished by their long, straight (orthoconic) shells. The fossilised shell typically shows a long tapering cone, segmented into chambers. These chambers were filled with gas or fluid to control buoyancy, much like a modern nautilus. A visible siphuncle—a central tube running through the chambers—helped regulate this buoyancy. Orthoceras fossils are easily recognisable by their: Straight, tapered shell Central siphuncle Delicate ribbing and subtle growth lines Beautiful black/grey matrix, often polished for display Although Orthoceras is often associated with the Ordovician Period, the term has historically been applied to a wide variety of nautiloid species from other periods as well, especially in the commercial fossil trade. The Moroccan fossil specimens sold under this name are usually nautiloid relatives from Devonian or Cretaceous formations, such as those found in the Kem Kem beds. About the Kem Kem Basin: The Kem Kem fossil beds in southeastern Morocco are a globally significant site for Cretaceous vertebrate and invertebrate fossils. While the area is most famous for dinosaur material, it also yields marine fossils, including Orthoceras, which became preserved in dark limestone and later polished into elegant fossil plaques. Why Collect Orthoceras Fossils? Orthoceras fossils are both scientifically fascinating and visually stunning, making them ideal for: Fossil & mineral collections Educational use and museum displays Natural home décor Meditation and energy work (believed to ground and stabilise energy) This hand-selected polished plaque showcases one or more complete Orthoceras shells embedded in their natural matrix, offering a striking presentation for display. Key Features: 100% genuine Orthoceras fossil in polished matrix plaque From the Cretaceous strata of the Kem Kem Basin, Morocco Excellent detail of shell structure and central siphuncle Includes Certificate of Authenticity Exact specimen shown – professionally photographed and carefully selected Scale cube = 1cm – see photo for full dimensions Colour may vary slightly due to lighting and monitor settings Fossils may be gently propped for photography Listing will be updated with a new similar item once sold Bring home a timeless relic of the ancient oceans with this stunning Orthoceras fossil plaque—an elegant reminder of life that ruled the seas over 100 million years ago.