High Grade Polished Ichthyosaur Reptile Coprolite Fossil Black Ven Lyme Regis Jurassic Coast UK Genuine Specimen with Certificate

Description

High Grade Polished Ichthyosaur Coprolite from the Jurassic Coast

This outstanding High Grade Polished Ichthyosaur Reptile Coprolite Fossil comes from the famous Black Ven Marls, Lower Lias, situated along the world-renowned Jurassic Coast at Black Ven, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. Coprolites—fossilised faeces—offer a unique and scientifically valuable insight into the diet and ecology of prehistoric animals. This beautifully polished specimen highlights the internal textures, mineral structures, and organic patterns created during fossilisation, making it both a scientifically meaningful and visually captivating fossil.

The photos show the exact piece you will receive, selected individually for its exceptional grade and striking appearance. Full sizing is provided in the listing images.

Geological Origin: Lower Lias, Early Jurassic

Formed around 200 million years ago during the Early Jurassic period, the Lower Lias represents one of the richest fossil-bearing units in the world. The Black Ven Marls were deposited in a calm, shallow marine environment where fine sediments accumulated quickly, creating perfect conditions for the preservation of marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs and their associated trace fossils.

Ichthyosaurs were fast-swimming marine reptiles that dominated the oceans long before dinosaurs roamed the land. Their coprolites provide direct evidence of feeding behaviour, prey types, and digestive processes. Fossils from this locality frequently display mineralised internal textures, often revealing flecks of bone, fish matter, and other dietary remnants—features that can become especially striking when polished.

Scientific Features and Notable Characteristics

This polished ichthyosaur coprolite displays several desirable and scientifically interesting attributes:

• Smooth, high-grade polished exterior enhancing natural mineral colours
• Visible internal texture and structure typical of marine reptile coprolites
• Fine mineral banding and colour variation produced during fossil diagenesis
• Dense, compact form characteristic of ichthyosaur digestive material
• Beautiful display sheen without compromising scientific integrity

The polished finish reveals internal details that may not be visible in rough specimens, creating a perfect balance between scientific authenticity and decorative beauty.

Depositional Environment and Fossilisation

The Black Ven Marls provided ideal burial conditions for soft materials such as faecal matter. Rapid sedimentation sealed the material from decay, while mineral-rich groundwaters replaced organic compounds with stable minerals over millions of years. The resulting fossil retains the general shape, density, and textural patterns of the original ichthyosaur coprolite, providing a rare and fascinating record of prehistoric life.

The internal mineral patterns displayed in this polished specimen reflect the original digestive contents and gut structure of the ichthyosaur, giving valuable insight into Early Jurassic food webs.

Authenticity, Provenance, and Ethical Collection

All fossils we offer are 100% genuine specimens, and every purchase is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

The exact specimen shown in the photos is the one you will receive, ensuring complete transparency regarding quality, colouration, and structural detail.

A Fascinating Collector’s Piece from the Jurassic Coast

This High Grade Polished Ichthyosaur Reptile Coprolite Fossil is both scientifically important and visually striking, making it ideal for collectors, educational displays, museum presentations, interior décor, or anyone seeking a truly unique fossil with exceptional provenance. As a polished coprolite from the legendary Jurassic Coast, it represents a rare opportunity to own a beautifully finished specimen of prehistoric marine reptile history.