Ammonites were fascinating marine mollusks that lived from the Devonian Period (about 400 million years ago) until their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous Period, about 66 million years ago. Related to modern cephalopods like octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish, ammonites are distinct for their large, coiled external shells, making them resemble gigantic snails.

History:
The shells of ammonites often preserved a shiny, ‘mother-of-pearl’ layer called ammolite, which has been used to craft beautiful jewelry pieces.

Scientific Name:
The name ‘Ammonite’ refers to all creatures in the mollusk group Ammonoidea. These animals are named after the Egyptian god Ammon, who is depicted with ram’s horns—reminiscent of the coiled shells of many ammonite species.

Characteristics:
This Ammonite toy features the classic coiled shell, one of the most iconic characteristics of these ancient creatures. The shells of ammonites were often divided into multiple chambers, creating intricate patterns on their surface. Though their soft bodies were rarely preserved, it's believed they had large heads, well-developed eyes, and eight tentacles, much like modern cephalopods.

Size:
This ammonite figure measures 5.25 inches long and 2.5 inches high, making it a striking addition to any collection.