Beudanticeras newtoni Fossil Ammonite with Suture Patterns Gault Clay Aptian Cretaceous Folkestone Kent UK

Description

Beudanticeras (Beudanticeras) newtoni Fossil Ammonite with Suture Patterns

Offered here is a genuine Beudanticeras (Beudanticeras) newtoni ammonite fossil from the Gault Clay Formation of Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom. This specimen dates to the Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, around 125–113 million years ago. What makes this ammonite especially desirable is the presence of its clearly preserved suture patterns, an intricate feature that highlights the complexity of ammonite shell structure and their evolutionary success.

Every fossil we sell is a 100% genuine specimen and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact ammonite you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube and rule squares provided for accurate sizing.

Geological Context and Age

This ammonite was preserved in the Gault Clay Formation, a famous marine deposit stretching across southern England. The Folkestone exposures are among the most celebrated fossil localities in the UK, providing some of the finest ammonites of the Early Cretaceous.

The Gault Clay represents sediments deposited in a warm, shallow shelf sea influenced by the Tethys Ocean. Its fine-grained marine clays favoured the preservation of delicate shell details, such as ornamentation and sutures. The Aptian stage was a time of significant diversification for ammonites, and Beudanticeras newtoni is one of the index fossils used to define the time interval.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

Beudanticeras newtoni belongs to the family Desmoceratidae, within the superfamily Desmoceratoidea of the order Ammonitida. It is characterised by a discoidal, moderately involute shell with rounded whorls. Ornamentation is generally fine, with delicate ribbing visible across the flanks. The venter (outer margin) is smoothly rounded, contrasting with the more strongly ribbed ammonites of the period.

This specimen is notable for its exposed and visible suture patterns. Sutures are the intricate, leaf-like lines that mark the boundaries between successive chambers of the ammonite’s shell. In Beudanticeras, these sutures are moderately complex and add significant visual appeal as well as scientific interest. They provide palaeontologists with valuable insights into ammonite classification and evolutionary relationships.

Scientific Importance

Ammonites such as Beudanticeras newtoni are crucial for biostratigraphy, where their distinct features allow geologists to identify and date specific layers of rock. Its presence in the Gault Clay helps define the Aptian ammonite biozones, making it a vital index fossil.

The preserved suture patterns on this specimen elevate its scientific value. Sutures not only aid taxonomic identification but also shed light on how ammonites reinforced their shells for strength and buoyancy regulation. This makes the fossil important not only for collectors but also for research and teaching purposes.

Collector and Display Value

This Beudanticeras newtoni ammonite from Folkestone is an outstanding display specimen. The presence of visible sutures enhances its natural beauty, making it equally suited for private collectors, academic study, or as an educational piece. Fossils from the Gault Clay are highly regarded worldwide, and examples with clearly preserved suture detail are especially sought after.

Whether displayed in a cabinet, on a stand, or used as a teaching example, this fossil captures the complexity and artistry of natural history. Its provenance from Folkestone further adds to its prestige, as the site is internationally recognised for producing some of the finest Aptian ammonites.

Your Guarantee of Authenticity

• 100% genuine Beudanticeras (Beudanticeras) newtoni ammonite fossil
• Geological age: Aptian stage, Early Cretaceous (approx. 125–113 million years old)
• Formation: Gault Clay Formation, Folkestone, Kent, UK
• Family: Desmoceratidae, Order: Ammonitida
• Distinctive feature: clearly preserved suture patterns
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact specimen shown in photographs (not a stock image)
• Scale cube and rule squares = 1 cm (see photos for precise sizing)

This Beudanticeras newtoni ammonite fossil with suture patterns from Folkestone is both scientifically valuable and visually captivating, making it a superb addition to any fossil collection.