Fossils for Sale - High-quality BRITISH and WORLDWIDE Fossils. An impressive selection of fossils, including Ammonites, Trilobites, Belemnites, Fossil Fish, Fossil Shark Teeth, Fossilised Insects in Amber, Dinosaurs, and Reptiles. UK Fossils was formed in 1988 and collects and preps our own fossils in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, collecting fossils from Lyme Regis, Charmouth and Somerset. Our passion for fossils is reflected in our carefully curated collection, which includes some of the rarest and most unique specimens available.

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4" Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Lyme Regis Dorset UK – Genuine Black Ven Marls Lower Lias Specimen with COA
4" Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Lyme Regis Dorset UK – Genuine Black Ven Marls Lower Lias Specimen with COA - Image 2
4" Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Lyme Regis Dorset UK – Genuine Black Ven Marls Lower Lias Specimen with COA - Image 3

4″ Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Lyme Regis Dorset UK – Genuine Black Ven Marls Lower Lias Specimen with COA

£84.00

Authentic 4″ Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil from the Jurassic Coast, Dorset

This magnificent 4-inch Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil originates from the famous Black Ven Marls of the Lower Lias Formation, part of the Jurassic Coast at Black Ven, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. Discovered by our fossil specialists Alister and Alison on 05 November 2025, it has been meticulously cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to bring out the stunning natural metallic lustre that makes this specimen truly exceptional. Dating to the Early Jurassic (Sinemurian) Stage, approximately 195–200 million years ago, this ammonite offers both scientific importance and striking aesthetic appeal. The golden pyrite preservation gives it a rich, iridescent gleam, transforming a relic of ancient marine life into a spectacular natural work of art.

Geological and Scientific Context

The genus Gleviceras belongs to the family Oxynoticeratidae, within the superfamily Hildoceratoidea, and forms part of the order Ammonitida—a lineage of extinct marine cephalopods related to modern squid and cuttlefish. These ammonites flourished during the Sinemurian Stage of the Early Jurassic, a time when warm, shallow seas covered much of what is now southern England. The Black Ven Marls, a member of the Charmouth Mudstone Formation, represent one of the richest fossil-bearing deposits in the world, celebrated for yielding exceptional ammonites, belemnites, and marine reptile remains.

The sediments were deposited in a low-energy marine shelf environment, where fine muds and calcareous material accumulated slowly on the seabed. Limited oxygen at depth reduced scavenging and decay, allowing shells to fossilise intact. Over millions of years, circulating iron and sulphur-rich groundwater replaced the original shell material with pyrite (iron disulphide), creating the distinctive golden finish that makes these fossils both scientifically significant and visually striking.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

Gleviceras is easily recognised by its streamlined, oxyconic shell, featuring a narrow, compressed whorl cross-section and sharply defined venter (outer edge). The ribs are delicate and gently curved, sweeping forward towards a pronounced keel. This shape reflects the ammonite’s adaptation for a fast-swimming, nektonic lifestyle, using jet propulsion to navigate the open Jurassic seas.

The pyritised surface of this specimen accentuates every rib and suture line, revealing the intricate internal architecture that once divided the shell’s chambers. These chambers provided buoyancy control, allowing the ammonite to rise and sink effortlessly within the water column. The 4-inch size makes this a large and impressive example for the species, ideal for collectors seeking a display-grade specimen that combines beauty with scientific heritage.

Geological Age and Formation

Formed during the Sinemurian Stage of the Lower Jurassic, this specimen dates back approximately 197 million years. The Black Ven Marls are part of the globally renowned Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most important geological and palaeontological regions in the world. Continuous coastal erosion at Black Ven and Charmouth reveals new fossils each year, maintaining the area’s status as a premier destination for both professional palaeontologists and fossil enthusiasts.

The ammonite’s pyritisation occurred during early diagenesis—when the sediment was still soft—resulting in the replacement of aragonite shell material by golden iron pyrite. This natural mineralisation process gives the fossil its metallic brilliance while preserving its original structure in exceptional detail.

Preparation and Provenance

This specimen was discovered and prepared entirely by our in-house team, ensuring complete authenticity and professional quality. Alison’s careful preparation has enhanced the ammonite’s natural golden pyrite sheen while maintaining its scientific integrity. The fossil’s surface has been stabilised for preservation and lightly treated to prevent oxidation. Each piece we sell is 100% genuine and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its locality, age, and preparation details.

Size and Presentation

Scale cube = 1 cm. Please see the photographs for full sizing information. The images show the exact specimen you will receive—not a stock image. Its bold golden hue and detailed ribbing make it a standout display fossil, perfect for collectors, educators, and interior design enthusiasts alike. The specimen’s natural contrast against its dark marl matrix creates a visually captivating display that embodies the ancient beauty of the Jurassic seas.

A Premium Collector’s Specimen from the Jurassic Coast

Golden pyrite ammonites of the Gleviceras genus from Black Ven, Lyme Regis, are among the most admired fossils from the British Jurassic Coast. Their rare combination of size, detail, and golden brilliance makes them highly prized among collectors worldwide. This 4″ Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil is a one-of-a-kind specimen, expertly prepared and representing the finest craftsmanship and authenticity that the Jurassic Coast is famous for.

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Description

Authentic 4″ Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil from the Jurassic Coast, Dorset

This magnificent 4-inch Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil originates from the famous Black Ven Marls of the Lower Lias Formation, part of the Jurassic Coast at Black Ven, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. Discovered by our fossil specialists Alister and Alison on 05 November 2025, it has been meticulously cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to bring out the stunning natural metallic lustre that makes this specimen truly exceptional. Dating to the Early Jurassic (Sinemurian) Stage, approximately 195–200 million years ago, this ammonite offers both scientific importance and striking aesthetic appeal. The golden pyrite preservation gives it a rich, iridescent gleam, transforming a relic of ancient marine life into a spectacular natural work of art.

Geological and Scientific Context

The genus Gleviceras belongs to the family Oxynoticeratidae, within the superfamily Hildoceratoidea, and forms part of the order Ammonitida—a lineage of extinct marine cephalopods related to modern squid and cuttlefish. These ammonites flourished during the Sinemurian Stage of the Early Jurassic, a time when warm, shallow seas covered much of what is now southern England. The Black Ven Marls, a member of the Charmouth Mudstone Formation, represent one of the richest fossil-bearing deposits in the world, celebrated for yielding exceptional ammonites, belemnites, and marine reptile remains.

The sediments were deposited in a low-energy marine shelf environment, where fine muds and calcareous material accumulated slowly on the seabed. Limited oxygen at depth reduced scavenging and decay, allowing shells to fossilise intact. Over millions of years, circulating iron and sulphur-rich groundwater replaced the original shell material with pyrite (iron disulphide), creating the distinctive golden finish that makes these fossils both scientifically significant and visually striking.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

Gleviceras is easily recognised by its streamlined, oxyconic shell, featuring a narrow, compressed whorl cross-section and sharply defined venter (outer edge). The ribs are delicate and gently curved, sweeping forward towards a pronounced keel. This shape reflects the ammonite’s adaptation for a fast-swimming, nektonic lifestyle, using jet propulsion to navigate the open Jurassic seas.

The pyritised surface of this specimen accentuates every rib and suture line, revealing the intricate internal architecture that once divided the shell’s chambers. These chambers provided buoyancy control, allowing the ammonite to rise and sink effortlessly within the water column. The 4-inch size makes this a large and impressive example for the species, ideal for collectors seeking a display-grade specimen that combines beauty with scientific heritage.

Geological Age and Formation

Formed during the Sinemurian Stage of the Lower Jurassic, this specimen dates back approximately 197 million years. The Black Ven Marls are part of the globally renowned Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most important geological and palaeontological regions in the world. Continuous coastal erosion at Black Ven and Charmouth reveals new fossils each year, maintaining the area’s status as a premier destination for both professional palaeontologists and fossil enthusiasts.

The ammonite’s pyritisation occurred during early diagenesis—when the sediment was still soft—resulting in the replacement of aragonite shell material by golden iron pyrite. This natural mineralisation process gives the fossil its metallic brilliance while preserving its original structure in exceptional detail.

Preparation and Provenance

This specimen was discovered and prepared entirely by our in-house team, ensuring complete authenticity and professional quality. Alison’s careful preparation has enhanced the ammonite’s natural golden pyrite sheen while maintaining its scientific integrity. The fossil’s surface has been stabilised for preservation and lightly treated to prevent oxidation. Each piece we sell is 100% genuine and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its locality, age, and preparation details.

Size and Presentation

Scale cube = 1 cm. Please see the photographs for full sizing information. The images show the exact specimen you will receive—not a stock image. Its bold golden hue and detailed ribbing make it a standout display fossil, perfect for collectors, educators, and interior design enthusiasts alike. The specimen’s natural contrast against its dark marl matrix creates a visually captivating display that embodies the ancient beauty of the Jurassic seas.

A Premium Collector’s Specimen from the Jurassic Coast

Golden pyrite ammonites of the Gleviceras genus from Black Ven, Lyme Regis, are among the most admired fossils from the British Jurassic Coast. Their rare combination of size, detail, and golden brilliance makes them highly prized among collectors worldwide. This 4″ Gleviceras Golden Pyrite Ammonite Fossil is a one-of-a-kind specimen, expertly prepared and representing the finest craftsmanship and authenticity that the Jurassic Coast is famous for.

Additional information

Era

Jurassic
Origin

United Kingdom

Jurassic Information

The Jurassic Period (201–145 million years ago) was the golden age of dinosaurs, with iconic species like Brachiosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Allosaurus dominating the land. It was a time of warm, humid climates, with high sea levels that created vast shallow seas, supporting abundant marine reptiles, ammonites, and early coral reefs. The first birds, such as Archaeopteryx, evolved from small theropod dinosaurs, while early mammals remained small and nocturnal. Lush forests of cycads, conifers, and ferns covered the land, providing food for giant herbivores. The breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea accelerated, shaping Earth's geography and setting the stage for the diverse ecosystems of the Cretaceous.

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