This is a beautiful and interesting Chalcedony snail of the species Hippochrenes volgensis from the Paleocene of the Saratov region (Russia). In fact, all fossil snails from this site are often identified as this species. Although apparently specimens of the genus Turritella are more common at this site than Hippochrenes volgensis is. The fossil snail measures about 50 mm in length
A distinctive feature of this locality is the preservation of the gastropods as chalcedony pseudomorphs, where the original internal molds have been mostly replaced by chalcedony. The chalcedony also exhibits strong luminescence under UV light, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the specimens. It is indeed an unusual and particularly decorative type of preservation.
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| | Location: | Batai, Povolzhye, Saratov Region, Russia | |
| Size of matrix: | about 56 x 39 x 44 mm |
| Age: | Paleocene, Chernavsk Series, Batai Formation (about 59 Mill. years) |
