Fossil Crab Notopocorystes stokesi Gault Clay Folkestone Cretaceous UK Authentic Specimen Certified

Description

Genuine Fossil Crab Notopocorystes stokesi from Folkestone

This exceptional Fossil Crab, identified as Notopocorystes stokesi, originates from the famous Gault Clay deposits of Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom. Dating to the Lower Cretaceous period, approximately 100–110 million years ago (Albian stage), this specimen represents a classic and highly sought-after British crab fossil, preserved in fine marine sediments.

The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, carefully selected for its detail and natural preservation. It is a genuine fossil and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card, ensuring complete confidence in its authenticity and provenance.

Geological Context & Depositional Environment

The Gault Clay Formation is one of the most significant fossil-bearing strata in southern England, formed during the Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous. This deposit represents a relatively deep, calm marine environment where fine clay sediments accumulated on the seabed.

Low oxygen conditions at the sea floor helped preserve delicate organisms, including crustaceans such as Notopocorystes stokesi. The fine-grained clay matrix often captures remarkable detail, making Folkestone specimens particularly desirable among collectors and palaeontology enthusiasts.

This formation is also known for its rich marine fauna, including ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, and echinoids, all contributing to a detailed picture of Early Cretaceous marine ecosystems.

Taxonomy & Classification

Notopocorystes stokesi belongs to the order Decapoda, the same group that includes modern crabs, lobsters, and shrimps. It is part of the extinct family Necrocarcinidae, an important group of early true crabs (Brachyura).

This species was first described in the 19th century and is named in honour of early fossil collectors. It is one of the most recognisable fossil crabs from the British Cretaceous, often used to illustrate the early evolution of true crabs.

Morphology & Preservation Features

This fossil crab typically displays a broad, flattened carapace with a sub-rectangular to slightly rounded outline. The surface may show fine ornamentation, including subtle ridges, grooves, and segmentation that reflect the original anatomy of the crab.

Depending on preservation, features such as the carapace structure, eye sockets, and limb bases may be visible. In well-preserved examples, the symmetry and segmentation of the exoskeleton can be clearly observed, offering insight into the morphology of early brachyuran crabs.

The clay matrix enhances contrast, allowing the fossil to stand out and making it both visually appealing and scientifically informative.

Authenticity & Provenance

This specimen is 100% genuine and ethically sourced from the Gault Clay exposures at Folkestone. It has been carefully chosen for quality and authenticity, ensuring it meets the expectations of collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The included Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card provides reassurance and adds value, making it suitable for both personal collections and educational use. The fossil shown in the images is the exact piece you will receive, offering full transparency.

Collectability & Display Appeal

Fossil crabs from the Gault Clay are highly collectible due to their rarity and the difficulty of preservation. Notopocorystes stokesi is especially prized for its distinctive shape and its importance in understanding the early evolution of true crabs.

This specimen makes an excellent display piece, with its natural matrix providing a striking background that highlights the fossil. It is ideal for collectors, educators, or anyone with an interest in prehistoric marine life.

Please refer to the photographs for full sizing and condition, as they clearly show the exact specimen available.