Kepplerites Fossil Ammonite Koenigi Zone Gowerianus Subzone Kellaways Formation Callovian Jurassic Maud Heath’s Causeway Wiltshire UK

Description

Authentic Kepplerites Fossil Ammonite from Wiltshire

This listing offers a genuine Kepplerites fossil ammonite from the Jurassic deposits of Maud Heath’s Causeway, Wiltshire, UK. The specimen originates from the Koenigi Zone, Gowerianus Subzone of the Kellaways Formation, dating to the Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 165–163 million years ago. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate sizing.

Collected on 04 May 2024 by our skilled fossil hunters, Alister and Alison, this specimen was carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to highlight its natural features and ensure preservation. As with all our fossils, it is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance and confirming it as a 100% genuine specimen.

Geological Setting and Age

The Kellaways Formation represents marine deposits from the Middle Jurassic, formed in shallow epicontinental seas that covered southern England during the Callovian stage. The sandy and silty sediments of this formation preserve a wide range of marine fossils, including ammonites, bivalves, and marine reptiles.

This fossil is specifically from the Koenigi Zone, Gowerianus Subzone, a key stratigraphic interval used in Jurassic biostratigraphy. Ammonites like Kepplerites are critical as index fossils, helping palaeontologists to correlate rock layers across Europe with high precision.

Species Information – Kepplerites

Kepplerites is an extinct genus of ammonites within the order Ammonitida, superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and family Stephanoceratidae. These ammonites are characterised by moderately involute shells with ribbing that typically bifurcates (splits into two ribs) as it crosses the flank. The ribs may strengthen toward the outer whorl and are often accompanied by distinctive tubercles (small nodules), giving Kepplerites a recognisable and ornate appearance.

The genus is particularly important in defining ammonite biozones within the Middle Jurassic. The presence of Kepplerites in the Gowerianus Subzone allows for precise stratigraphic placement of fossiliferous horizons, making specimens like this valuable for both scientific and collector purposes.

Fossil Features and Preservation

This specimen displays the classic features of Kepplerites, including its ribbed shell and partial whorl preservation. The ribbing pattern and overall shell form remain visible, providing clear identification. Although geological pressure has compressed parts of the fossil, the diagnostic traits are intact.

Preserved within its natural limestone matrix, the fossil retains scientific context while serving as a striking display specimen. The careful preparation has ensured that the ammonite’s natural structure is highlighted without compromising authenticity.

Collector and Scientific Significance

Ammonites such as Kepplerites are significant index fossils and essential to Callovian biostratigraphy. Their restricted stratigraphic range makes them highly useful in dating and correlating Jurassic deposits. For collectors, this specimen offers the rare chance to own an ammonite with both scientific and display value from a well-documented British locality.

The combination of strong provenance, clear stratigraphic assignment, and careful preparation enhances this fossil’s appeal for private collectors, educational use, and scientific study.

A Unique Jurassic Fossil from Wiltshire

This Kepplerites fossil ammonite is a rare and scientifically important specimen from the Middle Jurassic seas of Wiltshire. With its geological context in the Koenigi Zone, careful preparation, and accompanying Certificate of Authenticity, it represents both a beautiful display fossil and a valuable piece of Britain’s Jurassic heritage.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.