Chalcedony pseudomorph / fossil after Gastropod (Hippochrenes volgensis)

Item Description

This attractive small cabinet sized specimen is enticing due to the fact that it's an unusual pseudomorph and a fossil all in one. A beautifully fossilized spiral Gastropod (Hippochrenes volgensis) shell measuring 3.6 cm has been completely replaced by gemmy smoky colored Chalcedony on matrix. The shells is complete, and has been exposed by sandblasting away the surrounding host rock. A rare opportunity to pickup a fine quality, eye-catching and desirable pseudomorph / fossil specimen. The piece has a saw mark on the bottom so it sits beautifully on its own without the aid of a base or clay. For reference, the species Hippochrenes volgensis has only been known for a little over 30 years, as it was first described by Moroz & Yermokhina in 1991. This specimen came to us from a good friend at the Tucson this past year, who specifically held it back for us. It's one of the better examples we've had to offer in the auctions.