Beudanticeras subparandieri Fossil Ammonite Gault Clay Aptian Cretaceous Folkestone Kent UK

Description

Genuine Beudanticeras subparandieri Fossil Ammonite

This listing offers a fine Beudanticeras subparandieri fossil ammonite from the famous Gault Clay Formation, Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous, collected at Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom. This specimen represents an authentic piece of Britain’s rich geological heritage and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing it as a 100% genuine fossil. The photos show the exact ammonite you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate sizing.

Geological Setting – Aptian, Cretaceous Period

The fossil originates from the Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 125–113 million years ago). The Gault Clay of Folkestone is one of the most well-known fossil-bearing deposits in the world, famous for producing a diverse assemblage of ammonites, belemnites, marine reptiles, and invertebrates. This marine clay was deposited in a shallow epicontinental sea that once covered much of Europe, providing a rich environment for ammonite evolution.

The Gault Clay is also an important stratigraphic unit, used extensively in scientific research due to its fossil content and precise layering. Ammonites like Beudanticeras subparandieri are crucial as index fossils, allowing geologists to date rock layers with high precision.

Species Details – Beudanticeras subparandieri

Beudanticeras belongs to the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Desmoceratoidea, and Family Desmoceratidae. The species Beudanticeras subparandieri is recognised for its elegant coiling and distinctive shell ornamentation. Notable morphological traits include:

• Moderately involute shell coiling, producing a compact form with well-defined whorls.
• Gently ribbed flanks, often with fine growth lines visible under the right lighting.
• Smooth venter, a typical feature of the genus, giving the fossil a streamlined appearance.
• Complex suture lines, showcasing the intricate septal folding that defines ammonites.

These features make this species highly sought after by both collectors and researchers, as they highlight the evolutionary diversity of Early Cretaceous ammonites.

Scientific Importance and Collectability

Beudanticeras subparandieri is not only scientifically significant but also aesthetically appealing. Its presence within the Aptian fossil record helps define important biozones, making it valuable for stratigraphic correlation. Fossils of this species are less frequently encountered compared to some other Folkestone ammonites, making well-preserved examples highly desirable for collectors.

The specimen offered here is a carefully chosen example, representing the species with clarity and detail. Ammonites of the Desmoceratidae family are often used in studies of ammonite palaeobiogeography, showing wide geographic distribution during the Early Cretaceous.

Provenance and Classification

• Species: Beudanticeras subparandieri
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Desmoceratoidea
• Family: Desmoceratidae
• Age: Aptian, Early Cretaceous (~120 million years ago)
• Formation: Gault Clay
• Locality: Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom

A Genuine Collector’s Fossil

This Beudanticeras subparandieri ammonite from Folkestone is a fine representation of Early Cretaceous marine life. Its excellent preservation and scientific importance make it an outstanding specimen for collectors, educators, or anyone with a passion for natural history. Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, it is a genuine and unique fossil that has endured for over 100 million years, ready to be admired and treasured in your collection.