Cleviceras exaratum Ammonite Fossil Whitby Jurassic Yorkshire UK Rare Display Specimen Authentic Lower Jurassic Marine Fossil

Description

Cleviceras exaratum Ammonite Fossil – Whitby Mudstone, Yorkshire, UK

This Cleviceras exaratum ammonite fossil comes from the renowned Whitby Mudstone Formation at Kettleness, near Whitby, Yorkshire, UK. A classic example of a Lower Jurassic ammonite, this specimen showcases the elegant form and fine detail characteristic of this well-known species. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, carefully selected for its quality, preservation, and visual appeal.

Geological Age & Formation

This ammonite dates to the Early Jurassic period, specifically the Toarcian stage, approximately 174–183 million years ago. The Whitby Mudstone Formation is one of the most important fossil-bearing units in the UK, deposited in a marine environment where fine muds accumulated over time. These conditions allowed for exceptional preservation of ammonites and other marine organisms.

Cleviceras exaratum is closely associated with the Harpoceras falciferum Biozone, a key stratigraphic marker within the Toarcian, widely used for correlating marine sediments across Europe.

Taxonomy & Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
• Family: Hildoceratidae
• Genus: Cleviceras
• Species: Cleviceras exaratum

Cleviceras is a refined and streamlined ammonite genus, first described in the 19th century, and is particularly well known from the Yorkshire coast.

Morphology & Notable Features

This specimen displays the classic compressed, evolute shell form typical of Cleviceras exaratum. The whorls are relatively narrow and finely structured, with subtle ribbing and a smooth, streamlined profile. The ribs are often delicate and may fade across the flanks, giving the shell a clean and elegant appearance compared to more heavily ornamented ammonites.

The keel along the outer edge (venter) is often well-defined, aiding hydrodynamics and reflecting the active swimming lifestyle of this cephalopod. These features suggest that Cleviceras was a fast-moving predator, adapted to open marine conditions.

The preservation of this specimen highlights these morphological traits, making it both scientifically informative and visually appealing.

Depositional Environment

The Whitby Mudstone Formation represents a relatively low-energy offshore marine environment. Fine sediments settled on the seabed, occasionally under low-oxygen conditions, which helped preserve delicate shell structures. These conditions contributed to the exceptional fossil record for which Whitby is famous.

During the Toarcian, marine life flourished, with ammonites like Cleviceras playing a key role in the ecosystem alongside fish, marine reptiles, and other invertebrates.

Discovery & Expert Preparation

This fossil was discovered by our experienced team members, Alister and Alison, along the Yorkshire coastline. After careful extraction, the specimen was expertly cleaned, stabilised, and prepared by Alison to enhance its natural features while preserving its integrity. The preparation ensures a high-quality display specimen ready for any collection.

Authenticity & Provenance

This is a genuine Cleviceras exaratum ammonite fossil and includes a Certificate of Authenticity with a lifetime guarantee. All specimens are responsibly sourced and professionally prepared, ensuring confidence in both authenticity and provenance.

Display & Collectability

Whitby ammonites are highly prized by collectors worldwide, and Cleviceras exaratum is a particularly desirable species due to its elegant form and stratigraphic importance. This specimen is ideal for collectors, educators, or as a refined natural history display piece. Its origin from the iconic Yorkshire coast adds further historical and geological significance.

Condition & Sizing

Please refer to the photographs for full sizing and condition details, as they form part of the description. This is a carefully chosen specimen, and the images accurately represent the exact fossil you will receive.