Ammonite models provide fossil hunters with an opportunity to illustrate their ammonite fossil collections with a replica of the actual animal.  There have been several ammonite figures introduced in recent years.  They have certainly captured the imagination of fossil enthusiasts and model collectors.  Professional palaeontologists have found them useful too.  At Everything Dinosaur, we also supply ammonite models to schools, universities, museums and to people involved in science communication.

The Bullyland ammonite model is often used in museum displays to depict the living animal next to fossil material. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows an ammonite model next to a polished ammonite fossil.  The ammonite replica is from the Bullyland range of prehistoric animal figures.  It was one of the first replicas of an ammonite to be made by a mainstream model manufacturer.

To view the Bullyland range: Bullyland Prehistoric Animal Models and Figures.

Describing Ammonite Models

Ammonite models are detailed replicas that provide an example of a typical ammonite.  There are hundreds of ammonite genera.  It would not be possible to create a figure to represent every single species.  However, the replicas that do exist provide a helpful and informative representation of these extinct cephalopods.  The models are meticulously designed to replicate the intricate details of the original fossils.

Most ammonite genera had planispiral shells. However, throughout the course of their long evolutionary history these remarkable cephalopods evolved a huge variety of shell forms.

The CollectA Age of Dinosaurs range contains a replica of an ammonite with a planispiral shell. The genus is Pleuroceras.  In addition, CollectA have included an example of a heteromorphic ammonite in their model range. The genus is Pravitoceras.

CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Size Pleuroceras ammonite model.

The CollectA Pravitoceras figure is extremely detailed, and it depicts an ammonite with an irregularly coiled shell.

The colourful heteromorph ammonoid model – CollectA Pravitoceras.

To view the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs model series: CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Models.

The Significance of Ammonite Replicas

Ammonite figures have gained popularity amongst fossil collectors.  The models are placed next to fossils to provide a visual clue to what these marine creatures actually looked like.  Ammonite models are used in museum exhibits too.  These figures provide a tangible representation of an extinct animal.  Furthermore, these figures can be used to help with scientific communication and outreach work.  Their robust form enables them to stand up to lots of handling from inquisitive children.  These replicas often evoke a sense of awe and wonder.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that the company supplied a large number of these figures.

The spokesperson added|:

“Ammonite models provide an affordable way to demonstrate what these long extinct creatures looked like.  The vast majority of fossils we have represent just the shell.  The creature lived in the last segment of the shell and the models help to bring ammonites back to life.”

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Toys.