Double Promicroceras Calcite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Black Ven Charmouth Dorset UK

Description

Specimen Overview

This attractive fossil specimen features a Double Promicroceras calcite ammonite, preserved naturally together within the original matrix from the Black Ven Marls, Charmouth, near Lyme Regis, Dorset. The piece shows two Promicroceras ammonites in genuine association, offering increased visual impact and scientific interest compared to a single specimen. Pale calcite preservation highlights the coiled shells beautifully against the darker marl background, allowing the natural form and detail of each ammonite to be clearly appreciated. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with full sizing details visible in the images. As with all of our fossils, this specimen is 100% genuine and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Formation & Locality

The fossil originates from Black Ven, one of the most famous and productive fossil localities on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site internationally recognised for its geological importance. The Black Ven Marls form part of the Lower Lias Group, deposited during the Early Jurassic Period, approximately 199–196 million years ago. These sediments were laid down in a relatively calm offshore marine environment, where fine-grained muds accumulated on the seabed. Such low-energy conditions allowed ammonite shells to settle gently and become rapidly buried, resulting in the excellent preservation typical of fossils from this area.

Fossil Type & Taxonomic Context

Promicroceras is an extinct genus of ammonite belonging to the Class Cephalopoda, Subclass Ammonoidea, and Order Ammonitida. Ammonites were free-swimming marine molluscs closely related to modern squid and cuttlefish, occupying an important ecological role as predators in Jurassic seas. Promicroceras is particularly characteristic of early Lower Lias ammonite assemblages and is widely regarded as an important index fossil, making it valuable for understanding Early Jurassic stratigraphy and marine recovery following the end-Triassic extinction.

Morphology & Preservation

Both ammonites in this specimen display the characteristic tightly coiled shell morphology of Promicroceras, with clearly defined whorls and visible growth features that record the animals’ development during life. Calcite replacement has preserved the original shell geometry while enhancing surface detail, giving the fossils a subtle crystalline appearance under light. The surrounding marl matrix remains intact, preserving the ammonites in their original geological context and confirming this as a genuine natural double specimen rather than a composite arrangement.

Scientific & Collecting Significance

Ammonites from Charmouth and Lyme Regis have been collected and studied for over two centuries and played a central role in the early development of geological and stratigraphic science. Promicroceras is especially important within Early Jurassic ammonite successions and is widely referenced in both academic and educational contexts. Fossils from Black Ven are internationally recognised for their reliable provenance and scientific credibility. A double Promicroceras specimen is less common than single examples and offers enhanced educational value, rarity, and display appeal.

Display, Care & Authenticity

This fossil is ideal for display in a private collection, educational environment, or natural history cabinet. The specimen has been carefully cleaned to reveal its natural features, with no artificial restoration or reconstruction applied. It remains exactly as preserved by nature. You will receive the exact specimen shown, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its geological origin and genuine status.

A classic and scientifically meaningful fossil from one of Britain’s most iconic fossil localities, this Double Promicroceras calcite ammonite represents an authentic and visually striking example of Early Jurassic marine life from the Jurassic Coast.