Amaltheus gibbosus Ammonite Fossil | Upper Pliensbachian, Jurassic | Heininger Germany | Alice Purnell Collection | Genuine with Certificate

Description

Fossil Type & Species:

This listing features a genuine ammonite fossil of Amaltheus gibbosus, an exceptional and scientifically significant cephalopod species from the Upper Pliensbachian Stage of the Early Jurassic Period. Collected from the famous Jurassic deposits of Heiningen, Germany, this fossil is part of the acclaimed Alice Purnell Collection, celebrated for its high-quality and academically valuable British and European specimens.

Geological Formation & Insight:

Amaltheus is a genus within the Dactylioceratidae family, known for their strongly ribbed and often compressed shells. Amaltheus gibbosus is characterised by its flattened whorls, prominent ribs, and expanded outer whorls that give the species its signature gibbous (humped) appearance. These ammonites were nektonic predators, swimming freely through the Jurassic seas and playing an important role in the Early Jurassic marine ecosystem.

The fossil was recovered from deposits corresponding to the Upper Pliensbachian (~189–183 million years ago), a time of widespread shallow marine conditions across Europe. The region around Heiningen in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is well-known for its extensive and well-preserved marine fossil assemblages, including ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, and crinoids. The fine limestone and marl of this locality allow for remarkable preservation, capturing delicate features such as ribbing, growth lines, and shell shape.

Item Specifics:

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Species: Amaltheus gibbosus
• Geological Age: Upper Pliensbachian Stage, Early Jurassic (~189–183 million years ago)
• Formation: Pliensbachian marine sediments
• Locality: Heiningen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Provenance: From the Alice Purnell Collection
• Preservation: Excellent – visible ribbing, coiling, and matrix integrity
• Colour: Natural fossil tones — typically brown to grey shell in limestone matrix
• Size: Please refer to photo with scale cube (1cm per square)
• Condition: 100% natural; no restoration
• Specimen: You will receive the exact fossil shown in the listing photographs

Authenticity Guarantee:

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity. This specimen is professionally curated and part of the respected Alice Purnell Collection, ensuring scientific quality and accurate provenance.

Shipping & Packaging:

Your fossil will be securely packaged with full tracking. A beautiful and scientifically valuable specimen — ideal for collectors, educators, or as a timeless natural history gift.

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