Parkinsonia parkinsoni Fossil Ammonite Bajocian Jurassic Dorset UK Genuine Horn Park Ammonite Specimen with Certificate of Authenticity COA

Description

Authentic Parkinsonia parkinsoni Fossil Ammonite

This listing offers a beautifully preserved Parkinsonia parkinsoni ammonite fossil from the Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic, collected at Horn Park, Dorset, United Kingdom. The specimen captures the intricate ribbing and coiled morphology characteristic of this iconic species. Presented exactly as photographed, with a 1 cm scale cube and rule squares for precise size reference, this fossil is guaranteed to be 100% genuine and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context – Bajocian of Horn Park

The fossil originates from the Horn Park Quarry in Dorset, one of the most significant Jurassic ammonite localities in the United Kingdom. The site is particularly famous for its Bajocian (approximately 170–168 million years ago) ammonite assemblages, making it an internationally important stratigraphic reference point. During the Bajocian, much of southern England lay beneath warm shallow seas where abundant ammonites, marine reptiles, and invertebrates thrived. The calcareous sediments of these marine environments provided ideal conditions for fossilisation, capturing fine details of ammonite shells and preserving them for millions of years.

Species Overview – Parkinsonia parkinsoni

The species Parkinsonia parkinsoni belongs to the family Parkinsoniidae, within the order Ammonitida, superfamily Perisphinctoidea. Named after the pioneering British geologist James Parkinson, this ammonite is one of the most recognisable and widely studied of the Bajocian stage. Its importance extends beyond its striking appearance—P. parkinsoni is used as a zone fossil for the Parkinsoni Zone, a key biozone in the Middle Jurassic that helps geologists correlate rock strata across Europe.

Morphological Features

Parkinsonia parkinsoni is distinguished by its large, moderately involute shell with strongly ribbed whorls. The ribs extend across the flanks of the shell, bifurcating as they approach the outer margin (venter), giving the ammonite its characteristic ornamented appearance. These ribbing patterns not only provided structural reinforcement to the shell but also give palaeontologists crucial clues about evolutionary relationships within ammonite lineages. The specimen offered here retains these features in fine detail, making it both scientifically valuable and aesthetically striking.

Scientific and Collectible Value

Ammonites such as Parkinsonia parkinsoni are highly prized for their stratigraphic importance. As an index fossil of the Bajocian, it precisely marks a stage in the Jurassic timescale, allowing accurate dating of associated rock layers. Collectors value these ammonites for their historic connection to British geology, their role in defining Jurassic biozones, and their attractive, ribbed morphology. For educators and students, they provide an accessible yet scientifically important example of Jurassic marine life.

Provenance and Guarantee

This fossil was collected from the Horn Park site in Dorset, a location renowned for its quality Bajocian ammonites. It has been carefully chosen for its preservation and clarity of features. The specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its provenance and guaranteeing it as a genuine fossil specimen. The exact ammonite in the photographs is the one you will receive.

A Rare Jurassic Ammonite from Dorset

This Parkinsonia parkinsoni ammonite from Horn Park, Dorset is an outstanding fossil for both collectors and enthusiasts. Its combination of scientific significance, aesthetic appeal, and historic geological provenance makes it a rare and desirable addition to any fossil collection.