Description
Genuine Metophioceras Fossil Ammonite from the Jurassic Coast of Devon
This genuine Metophioceras fossil ammonite is a beautifully preserved marine fossil recovered from the famous Blue Lias deposits of Charton Bay, Devon, England. Originating from the Bucklandi Zone of the Lower Lias, Lower Jurassic, this specimen represents a remarkable piece of ancient prehistoric marine life dating to approximately 199–196 million years ago. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, carefully selected for its natural preservation and visual appeal.
Your specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, and has been professionally cleaned, prepped and treated by Alison to help preserve the fossil while enhancing the natural detail of the shell structure. This fossil also includes a fully hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity confirming the specimen is 100% genuine.
Full sizing please see photo.
About Metophioceras
Metophioceras is an extinct genus of ammonite belonging to the order Ammonitida, a highly successful group of cephalopods closely related to modern squid and nautilus. These ancient marine predators inhabited warm Jurassic seas and are renowned for their beautifully coiled shells and complex suture patterns.
This genus is typically associated with the Sinemurian stage of the Early Jurassic and is commonly found within the Bucklandi Biozone of the Lower Lias succession. Fossils from this horizon are highly sought after by collectors due to their scientific importance and classic preservation within the Blue Lias Formation.
Metophioceras specimens are recognised for their elegant ribbing, tightly coiled shell morphology and finely detailed whorls. Depending on preservation, many examples display intricate growth lines and chamber structures that reveal how the living animal developed throughout its life cycle.
Blue Lias Formation and Geological Significance
The Blue Lias Formation of Devon and Somerset is one of the most famous fossil-bearing geological units in the United Kingdom. Formed in a shallow tropical sea during the Early Jurassic, the alternating limestone and shale beds preserve a rich diversity of marine fossils including ammonites, marine reptiles, bivalves and crinoids.
Charton Bay is particularly well known amongst fossil collectors for producing high-quality Lower Jurassic ammonites. The Bucklandi Zone represents an important ammonite biozone used by palaeontologists to date Early Jurassic sediments across Europe. Fossils from this horizon are valuable both scientifically and historically, helping researchers understand marine evolution and environmental conditions following the end-Triassic extinction event.
Natural Fossil Preservation
This specimen retains its authentic natural character and has not been artificially replicated or reconstructed. Careful preparation has helped reveal the original fossil detail while maintaining the integrity of the specimen. Every ridge, curve and texture reflects millions of years of geological history preserved within the rock.
The fossil is ideal for collectors of Jurassic fossils, ammonites, British fossils, natural history specimens, palaeontology enthusiasts, geology students and collectors of authentic prehistoric marine life.
Certificate of Authenticity
This fossil includes a fully hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity confirming that the specimen is genuine and responsibly obtained. All of our fossils are carefully selected by our team and professionally prepared to ensure quality and authenticity.
The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing you to purchase with complete confidence.
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