Hildaites forte Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Whitby UK Genuine Specimen Certificate Authentic

Description

Genuine Jurassic Fossil – Hildaites forte Ammonite

This listing is for a genuine Hildaites forte Fossil Ammonite, collected from the world-famous fossil beds of Runswick Bay, Whitby, United Kingdom. Dating to the Middle Lias (Lower Jurassic), around 180 million years ago, this specimen is an excellent representation of a rare ammonite from Whitby’s Jurassic coast. Each fossil is individually photographed so that you receive the exact specimen shown. All fossils are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring provenance and quality.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite comes from the Jurassic Period, specifically the Middle Lias, Lower Jurassic, within the Pliensbachian stage. The cliffs and shorelines of Whitby and Runswick Bay are among the most important fossil localities in the world, producing countless ammonites, belemnites, marine reptiles, and other ancient sea life. These strata were deposited in a shallow marine environment, where fine muds and silts rapidly buried marine organisms, resulting in excellent fossil preservation. For centuries, Whitby fossils have been treasured by collectors and studied by scientists, making them iconic examples of Britain’s geological heritage.

Fossil Type and Classification

This specimen represents Hildaites forte, a species within the family Hildoceratidae, superfamily Hildoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. Ammonites were extinct marine molluscs, closely related to modern squids and cuttlefish, with coiled chambered shells. The genus Hildaites is distinguished by its compressed shells and distinctive ribbing. Hildaites forte is particularly significant as it is a recognised stratigraphic marker species, helping geologists identify and date Jurassic rock layers.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

The shell of Hildaites forte displays several notable traits:

• Compressed, planispiral form with tightly coiled whorls.
• Fine ribbing, radiating across the shell and giving it a striking appearance.
• A relatively narrow umbilicus, exposing the inner whorls in cross-section.
• Suture lines marking the internal chambers, typical of Jurassic ammonites.

These distinctive features make Hildaites forte both a scientifically valuable species and a visually appealing fossil for collectors. The clear ribbing and compressed shape differentiate it from other ammonites found in the Whitby region.

Biozone and Scientific Importance

The species Hildaites forte plays an important role in Jurassic stratigraphy, being a key fossil in defining parts of the Pliensbachian stage. Its recognisable morphology and stratigraphic range make it an excellent index fossil, widely used by geologists to correlate Jurassic rocks across Europe. Fossils such as this not only appeal to collectors but also hold lasting scientific significance in the study of Earth’s history.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Whitby coastline was submerged beneath a shallow epicontinental sea. Fine muds and clays accumulated on the seabed, often under conditions that slowed decay and scavenging. As a result, ammonites like Hildaites forte were preserved in exceptional detail. Many are found within nodules or shale layers that split open to reveal fossils after millions of years of burial. This depositional environment has made Whitby one of the world’s most celebrated fossil localities.

Historical and Collecting Value

Whitby ammonites have captivated collectors since the Victorian era, when they were prized in natural history collections and decorative arts. Today, fossils such as Hildaites forte are sought after for their combination of rarity, scientific significance, and beauty. For collectors, owning such a specimen represents both a tangible piece of geological history and a striking display piece.

Authenticity and Presentation

• 100% Genuine Fossil Specimen
• Species: Hildaites forte
• Age: Jurassic, Middle Lias, approx. 180 million years old
• Location: Runswick Bay, Whitby, United Kingdom
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Scale cube in photographs = 1 cm for accurate sizing
• The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive

This exceptional Hildaites forte ammonite fossil is a rare and scientifically valuable piece from Whitby’s Jurassic coast. It is a superb addition to any fossil collection, combining natural beauty, scientific importance, and a direct connection to Britain’s ancient seas.