Ammonite Fossil Split in Golden Calcite Twilight

Golden calcite veins fracture a dark ammonite fossil, glowing against the indigo wash of Loja's post-sunset sky. The spiral chambers reveal sharp crystalline edges where the stone split, catching the faint warm light from nearby observatory instruments. Cool season air carries salt wind across the exposed metal equipment flanking the specimen. The fossil rests on a rough stone surface, its polished shell against the matte texture of the surrounding geology. Shadows stretch long across the table, deepening the indigo hue of the evening. One beam of instrument light reflects off a calcite point, marking the edge of the spiral.