Festilyria festiva
A big size perfect Festilyria festiva from Somalia.
A classic rarity, very hard to get in this size and condition, for the serious collector or for decor beautiful shell.
A big size perfect Festilyria festiva from Somalia.
A classic rarity, very hard to get in this size and condition, for the serious collector or for decor beautiful shell.
This is a unique and complex Calcite mineral group with a Travertino/Agate-like formation, featuring beautifully colored layers. Sourced from Yunnan Province, China, this piece is truly one-of-a-kind.
Mounted on a handmade dark brass base, making it a stunning addition to any collection.
Attacus atlas or Atlas moth - a couple (male and female), from Thailand, in a black wood frame.
The Atlas moth is one of the largest lepidopterans, with a wingspan measuring up to 24 cm (9.4 in). As in most Lepidoptera, females are noticeably larger and heavier than males, while males have broader antennae. Both forewings have a prominent extension at the tip, with markings that resemble the head of a snake, a resemblance which is exaggerated by movements of the wings when the moth is confronted by potential predators.Their habitat is primarily dry tropical forests, secondary forests, and shrublands across South Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, including Borneo.
Jimbacrinus Bostocki (Crinoid Fossil - Ordovician 488 million years)
This is a rare piece, mass mortality plate of Jimbacrinus bostocki crinoid fossils from Western Australia with over 8 individuals on it.
These crinoids are 3D and have a very alien appearance.
The plate is 32cm x 20cm and has been nicely prepared.
These Jimbacrinus crinoids are hard to acquire due to Australia's strict fossil export laws.
This specimen was exported legally during the 80's and was part of a collection for years before being recently re-prepared.
Magnificent bowls crafted from Araucaria petrified wood dating back to the Triassic period (around 220 million years ago), sourced from the Ambilobe region in northern Madagascar.
Each piece displays dramatic patterns and rich natural colors, revealing the timeless beauty of fossilized wood. Every bowl is entirely unique, polished by hand, with vivid coloration and captivating texture that make them truly rare and remarkable.
Kyanite, an aluminosilicate mineral, typically graces us with its mesmerizing blue hues. This mineral is often derived from the Greek words 'kyanos' or 'kuanos,' both meaning 'dark blue,' which aptly describes its captivating coloration.
Kyanite finds its origins in aluminum-rich metamorphic pegmatites and sedimentary rock formations. Beyond its inherent beauty, this mineral serves as a valuable resource, playing a pivotal role in the creation of ceramics and abrasives. Geologists treasure Kyanite as an essential index mineral, using it to delineate metamorphic zones and unravel the Earth's geological history.
In addition to its industrial applications, Kyanite reveals its softer, more enchanting side in the world of jewelry. Exceptional specimens yield exquisite gemstones that adorn the finest jewelry pieces, adding a touch of natural elegance to the wearer's style.
This particular specimen boasts oversized and flawless Kyanite crystals set within a matrix of quartz. It hails from the enchanting region of S. José da Safira, Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for producing some of the world's most remarkable mineral treasures. Whether admired for its geological significance, its potential as a gemstone, or simply its sheer beauty, this large Kyanite crystal cluster mounted in a handmade dark brass base, is a testament to the wonders of our natural world.
The Scyllarides latus, commonly known as the Mediterranean slipper lobster, is a species found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is edible and highly prized as a delicacy, but it has become rare across much of its range due to overfishing. Adults can grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) in length, are camouflaged, and lack claws. Nocturnal by nature, they emerge from caves and other shelters at night to feed on mollusks. Besides being a delicacy for humans, S. latus is also preyed upon by various bony fish. In Portugal, it is commonly known as "Cavaco." This particular specimen, sourced from the coast of Italy, has been expertly prepared and is displayed in a stunning glass vitrine.
Neptun Cap Coral - Halomitra pileus in an acrylic base, from Solomon island.
These corals are not attached to the rocks or other corals, they live free on the bottom, and usually in the shape of a helmet, but also sometimes with a flattened round shape.
Supplied with CITES certificate.
Dicronorhina derbyana layardi, or Derby's flower beetle, is a sub-Saharan species of flower chafer. These beetles are among the most attractive in the world, known for their intricate patterns and beautiful metallic colors. This customized glass vitrine contains three selected males, all reaching the maximum size of around 50 mm, showcasing superb color and quality. They are from the Kafue River in Zambia.
Pecopteris sp. – This name refers to a broad group of ferns belonging to the order of true ferns. These fossils are often found in large concentrations, preserved within slates formed by the deposition of fallen leaves mixed with clays, which over millions of years compressed and solidified. This high-quality specimen dates back to the Paleozoic Period (approximately 360 million years ago) and originates from the renowned Serra de Valongo in Portugal.
This beautiful polished septarian egg, from Madagascar, shows its interior crystallization in contrast with exterior colors.
Septarias are prehistoric marine nodules of bio sedimentary origin followed by dehydration during diagenesis, which today are found as large pebbles in clay soil. The creation of a Septarian is a succession of events along millions years, they form around a core of organic matter (plant or animal).
Sediments continue to settle on the nodule, compacting it under their weight which will flatten it and expel water, while inside micro-cracks begin to form, amplified by tectonic movements. It is in these shrinkage slots that over time dissolved minerals will crystallize.
Its name comes from the Latin "septum" which means partition, barrier, indeed, the polishing of the nodule reveals and sublimates its elegant marbling of black calcite, millions of years that offer these sumptuous minerals, each piece is unique!
Natural Botryoidal Malachite slice, a delightful specimen showcasing the unique characteristics of Malachite in a flat and polished form. This lovely slice exhibits fascinating markings that resemble intricate flowers, adding a touch of natural artistry to its overall allure.
Sourced exclusively from the Katanga Province in Congo, this remarkable Malachite slice is a true rarity. The organic and almost ethereal botryoidal patterns, known for their subtle yet mesmerizing appeal, make it a truly exceptional find.
As these specimens have become increasingly scarce, owning this piece allows you to cherish a piece of nature's art that is as distinctive as it is captivating.
Gogottes, ancient sandstone concretions shaped over millions of years, are composed of minute quartz particles bound by calcium carbonate. The most exceptional examples originate from Fontainebleau, France, celebrated for its remarkably refined, porcelain-textured sands. Each of these naturally crafted mineralogical marvels assumes a distinct and unparalleled form, often reminiscent of ethereal clouds, swirling gusts, fauna, or spectral apparitions.
Mounted in a handmade dark brass base and originating from sedimentary rocks within an old phosphate quarry in Youssoufia, Morocco.
A spectacular large opalized ammonite group from Madagascar, dating to the Cretaceous Albian period (approximately 100–145 million years ago). This impressive fossil features a beautifully preserved Cleoniceras ammonite accompanied by another ammonite species, creating a striking natural composition.
Over millions of years, the original shell material was replaced by opalized minerals, giving the fossils their distinctive color, texture, and fossilized brilliance. The exceptional preservation and large size make this specimen particularly eye-catching.
Both scientifically fascinating and visually captivating, this one-of-a-kind piece makes a remarkable decorative display and a standout addition to any fossil or natural history collection.
A beautiful Shell ball made with Cardiidae shells, from Indonesia, mounted in form of flowers.
These balls are part of the Indo-Pacific cultural heritage, and from a long time tribal people use them as adornment pieces. Today they are natural and beautiful decor pieces.
A high quality handmade glass dome with four Phoebis philea - the Orange-barred sulphur, is a species of butterfly found in the Americas, these ones are from Peru. The species eats nectar from red-colored plants and the larvae feeds on Cassia species. Mounted in a Red Moor wood piece, previously treated and harmless, for the security and prevention of any bacterial problem, it is also presented two Hebomoja glaucippe from Thailand - this particular species presents glacontryphan-M in the wings, a peptide toxin belonging to the family contryphan that is an active constituent of the poisonous venom produced by cone snail (genus Conus). In the Hebomoia glaucippe this toxin works as a defense against predators.
Discover the extraordinary rarity and captivating beauty of these crystals—a harmonious blend of pale hues interwoven with the elusive blush of pink. The exquisite colors are a testament to the presence of phosphates and aluminum, creating a visual tapestry that is as rare as it is enchanting. Their unconventional and intriguing shapes only add to their desirability.
Sourced from the renowned Choique Mine in Neuquen, Argentina, these crystals are a testament to the Earth's remarkable artistry.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Rose Quartz and Amethyst, when paired together, hold the power to transmute negative energy into a positive force. These crystals can also offer solace from the symptoms of depression and anxiety by elevating one's vibrational energy. Wearing Amethyst and Rose Quartz daily can cocoon you in a loving and positive energy field, surrounding you with their uplifting influence.
Sugar Sea star in a white wood glass frame.
One of the most elusive species of starfish, very big size, from Gulf of Mexico.
Carcharodon Megalodon (Megalodon meaning “Big Tooth”) is an extinct species of shark regarded as one of the largest and most powerful predators in vertebrate history.
This beast lived approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago, during the Cenozoic Era. Fossil remains suggest that this giant shark reached a length of 18 metres (59 ft), from USA.
Displayed in a glass box made to measure.
Cyriopagopus minax known as Thailand black is a medium sized Tarantula.
It is a very fast and aggressive spider, and females are bigger and more dangerous! Even during mating, males are too afraid to simply approach a female and mate with her. Males take it pretty slow, attempting to distract the female with large slapping action from their front pair of legs.
They live in Thailand and Myanmar.
A rare Jeletzkytes spedeni Ammonite, from the Cretaceous, Maastrichian, Fox Hill formation, from 66 -72 million years old.
Very difficult to get, this is a beautiful specimen, from the the usual locality, Pennington County, South Dakota, USA
Gabbro is a phaneritic (coarse-grained), mafic intrusive igneous rock formed from the slow cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich magma into a holocrystalline mass deep beneath the Earth's surface.
Slow-cooling, coarse-grained gabbro is chemically equivalent to rapid-cooling, fine-grained basalt. Much of the Earth's oceanic crust is made of gabbro, formed at mid-ocean ridges. Gabbro is also found as plutons associated with continental volcanism. By rough analogy, gabbro is to basalt as granite is to rhyolite.
These superb patterned and grained specimen came from central Madagascar. The polishing work is made by local people.
Pocillopora eydouxi, known as Cauliflower coral is a widespread specimen and can be identified by the presence of wart on its surface. The colonies can be dome shaped or branching and are very variable in color and form depending on the environmental conditions. Species situated on shallow reefs by the sea tend to be stunted and those in deep calm water are often thin and open. Each polyp has tentacles but these are normally extended only at night.
These corals are sometimes attach to floating objects and can be carried far afield by currents. This particular specimen came from Solomon Island with respective CITES certificate ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing.
Elegantly displayed in a handmade dark brass base, to enhance any interior decoration.
The Anglerfish, scientifically known as Lophius piscatorius and commonly referred to as the European angler or common monkfish, belongs to the family Lophiidae. This unique species inhabits coastal waters spanning from the Barents Sea to the Strait of Gibraltar, encompassing regions such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Notably, within certain areas of its range, such as the Irish Sea, the European angler supports a significant commercial fishery.
This exquisite taxidermy specimen showcases the intricate details of the Anglerfish, including its distinctive two rows of teeth and elusive nature. Mounted within a glass dome, this display piece serves as a captivating tribute to the enigmatic beauty of this remarkable marine species.
Vertical branch black Gorgonian in a black lacquered wood base, these medium sizes Gorgonia have a special shape and are taken by divers from Manado, North Sulawezi - Indonesia.
This stunning Victorian-style table tray features two large valves of Pecten subnodosus, a species of scallop commonly known as the Giant Lion's Paw. Native to the Pacific and Gulf of California coasts of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico, extending southward to the western coast of Peru. These specimens originate from Baja California, USA. This species is edible.
Mounted in a Victorian style with one Carnelian cabochon and four Amethyst cabochons, all set in a handmade dark brass base.
A beautiful Smoked Quartz cluster from Shandong region, China.
Always a must either for collectors or to decor, intricated crystals, mounted in a handmade dark brass base.
Xenophora pallidula with glass sponge attachments in glass vitrine.
This particular species sometimes can be found with some spectacular attachments, in this case a big size glass sponge among many other deep water shells.
This specimen was found in Punta Engano - Philippines in 1993 from the late Emmanuel G. de Suduiraut.
Turbo marmoratus, from Indonesia, mounted in a handmade work in brass.
Known as the Green Turban, the Marbled Turban or Great Green Turban, is a large species of marine gastropod with a thick calcareous operculum in the family Turbinidae, the turban snails. The shells of these large sea snails have a very thick layer of nacre; this species has been commercially fished as a source of mother of pearl.
One of a Kind decor piece!
Diplomystus Dentatus fish from the Paleogene, Eocene, 53.500,000 to 48.500,000 years.
An ancestor of the herring family, a very finely boned fish which is extremely difficult to prepare from the Lagerstätte varve layer of the Eocene limestones of the Green River formation 18-inch layer.
These predator fish came from the prehistoric fossil lakes. The lower Eocene deposits of Green River formation was thought to be a large freshwater lake. The calcite would be absorbed by the remains of the fish, transforming their bones into a hard mineralized deposit in the slightly softer and lighter colored limestone shales.
Mounted in a handmade brass frame that can be fixed in three different ways.
Vasum Locklini - a Turbinellidae from the Caenozoic period (around 3 million years) from Florida - USA.
Always a beautiful intricate shell, mounted in a black lacquered wood base.
A spectacular Spondylus variegatus attached in a Malleus malleus shell from Davao - Philippines, in a black lacquered wood pedestal.
This is a uncommon attachment that came out by divers from time to time.
The two shells live in perfect symbiosis.
A Horned Helmet shell - Cassis cornuta, from Philippines, in a black lacquered wood base.
Cassis cornuta is a species of extremely large sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Cassidae. This large sea snail is found on sand and coral rubble, often around reefs.
A beautiful decor shell.
Quartz crystal geode, a true marvel of nature. With its good size and stunning open nodule, this geode reveals a plethora of small yet sparkling crystals that radiate brilliance.
Formed within gas bubbles trapped in volcanic rocks, these geodes bear witness to the intricate interplay of hydrothermal fluids depositing minerals within their chambers. Each crystal within the geode is a testament to the extraordinary forces that shaped it.
Originating from the southern region of Laâyoune in Morocco, these Quartz crystal geodes carry the essence of their unique geological heritage. Expertly mounted on a meticulously handcrafted dark brass base, this exceptional piece becomes a mesmerizing centerpiece, inviting awe and admiration.
A beautiful glass dome with small Gorgonia from de Indo-Pacific, 3 corals Montipora sp., 6 Conus betulinus and 3 Conus figulinus all from Philippines.
Combined shapes and colours make this glass dome a beautiful decor piece.
Stunning ammonite with red opalization on the surface, in a white lacquered wood base.. Ammonites were predatory mollusks that resemble the squid we know today.
These cephalopods had eyes, tentacles, and spiral shells. Ammonites are closely related to a living octopus, though the shells resemble that of a nautilus.
Every stone is unique and one of a kind. These fossils come from the Mahajanga River Basin, near the village of Ambatolafia of northwest Madagascar, located in the former province of Mahajanga/Majunga. They are dated from the Early Cretaceous period, Albian age (100 to 113.0 million years ago).
Natural, unbroken slab filled with wonderful naturally occurring orthoceras fossils that was once part of the prehistoric ocean floor over 400 million years ago, in a rose marble base.
As these forms of prehistoric squid were covered in ocean sediments prior to fossilization, the majority of the creatures will be facing in the same relative position, having been lined up by currents on the sea floor prior to being buried.
The fossils are exposed in their natural surrounding matrix. The slab features normal relief as well as dramatic natural texture and detail they had tentacles and ink sacs, much like present-day squid.
Except for belemnites, cephalopods had external shells with hollow internal chambers separated by walls called septa. Devonian period, ca. 410 million years, Anti-Atlas Mountains - Southern Morocco.
Cypraea aurantium a classic and iconic shells, very much sough after in the XVII to the middle of the XX century, fetched very high prices, in the 70" was discovered in big numbers in Philippines, still a very desirable collector item for is beauty is now very affordable.
A opportunity to get a beautiful pair from Mactan Isl. - Philippines. Mounted in white lacquered wood bases.
A stunning combination of flawless, well-formed blue Aquamarine crystals elegantly perched on a matrix of shimmering Muscovite and vibrant blue Fluorite.
This exceptional mineral assemblage is highly sought after by collectors for its rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Such remarkable specimens are exclusively sourced from the renowned mines of Nagar, Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Pakistan.
Mounted in a handmade dark brass base.
A spectacular Spondylus variegatus attached in a Malleus malleus shell from Davao - Philippines, in a white lacquered wood pedestal.
The Spondylus is a marine bivalve from the Spondilidae family, perfectly preserved. The Malleus malleus shell a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Malleidae, it is also known as the black hammer oyster.
This is a uncommon attachment that came out by divers from time to time.
The two shells live in perfect symbiosis.