Liparoceras Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Dorset UK

Description

Liparoceras Fossil Ammonite – Lower Lias, Black Ven Marls, Jurassic Coast, Dorset, UK

This beautifully preserved Liparoceras ammonite fossil comes from the renowned Black Ven Marls of the Lower Lias, collected at Stonebarrow Cliff, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. Liparoceras is one of the most recognisable and scientifically significant ammonite genera from the Early Jurassic, known for its bold shell ornamentation, large whorls, and distinctive ribbing patterns.

Your exact specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 25 November 2025, and has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison. The listing photographs show the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for size reference. Full measurements can be viewed directly in the accompanying photos.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context – Lower Lias, Early Jurassic

This fossil originates from the Lower Lias, a key Early Jurassic sequence dating to around 199–190 million years ago. The Black Ven Marls, part of the Charmouth Mudstone Formation, represent one of the richest and most complete records of early Jurassic marine life globally.

These sediments were deposited in a quiet, offshore marine basin where fine, clay-rich mud accumulated steadily on the seafloor. Low-oxygen conditions allowed for exceptional fossil preservation, particularly of ammonites, which often retain detailed ornamentation and shell structure. The Jurassic Coast, including the Charmouth and Black Ven area, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its geological continuity and fossil abundance.

Liparoceras – A Classic Lower Jurassic Ammonite

Liparoceras belongs to the order Ammonitida and is well known for its distinctive, robust appearance. It typically features:

• Thick, inflated whorls giving the shell a broad and sturdy form
• Strong radial ribbing that may bifurcate or remain simple depending on the species
• Wide umbilicus, characteristic of the genus
• Impressive size potential, making it one of the more visually striking ammonites of the Lower Lias

Liparoceras ammonites are frequently used in biostratigraphy because their well-defined morphological features allow clear identification within Lower Jurassic stratigraphic sequences. They are also favourites among collectors due to their bold shell structure and attractive ribbing.

Depositional Environment & Scientific Interest

The marine environment represented by the Black Ven Marls was a stable, moderately deep basin where ammonites thrived. Once deceased, individuals such as Liparoceras sank to the soft seabed where they were rapidly buried by fine sediments. Over millions of years, the mud lithified into the marls and clays seen today, preserving the shells within intact sedimentary layers.

Liparoceras fossils provide key insights into Jurassic marine ecosystems, including evolutionary trends, migration patterns, and palaeoenvironmental conditions. Their abundance and recognisable features make them one of the most important index fossils from the Lower Jurassic.

Authenticity, Preparation & Presentation

• 100% genuine fossil specimen

• Certificate of Authenticity included

• Professionally cleaned and prepared by Alison

• Discovered in situ at Stonebarrow Cliff by our own team

• You will receive the exact specimen photographed

• Scale cube = 1 cm for accurate sizing

This Liparoceras ammonite is a scientifically valuable and visually impressive fossil from the iconic Jurassic Coast, ideal for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of British palaeontology.