Promicroceras Calcite Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Coast Black Ven Charmouth Dorset UK

Description

Specimen Overview

This listing offers a genuine Promicroceras calcite ammonite fossil collected from the renowned Black Ven Marls at Charmouth, near Lyme Regis, Dorset. The specimen has been carefully chosen for its clear shell definition, natural presentation, and strong contrast between the pale calcite-preserved ammonite and the darker marl matrix. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with full sizing details clearly visible in the images. As with all of our specimens, this fossil is 100% genuine and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Formation & Provenance

The fossil originates from Black Ven, one of the most important fossil-bearing cliffs along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site internationally recognised for its geological significance. The Black Ven Marls form part of the Lower Lias Group, deposited during the Early Jurassic Period, approximately 199–196 million years ago. These sediments consist of fine-grained marine mudstones laid down in a relatively calm offshore environment. Such conditions allowed ammonite shells to settle on the seabed and become rapidly buried, protecting them from disturbance and enabling the excellent preservation seen in fossils from this locality.

Fossil Type & Taxonomic Context

Promicroceras is an extinct genus of ammonite belonging to the Class Cephalopoda, Subclass Ammonoidea, within the Order Ammonitida. Ammonites were free-swimming marine molluscs related to modern squid and cuttlefish and were highly successful predators in Jurassic seas. Promicroceras is characteristic of early Lower Lias ammonite assemblages and is widely regarded as an important index fossil, making it significant for understanding Early Jurassic stratigraphy and marine recovery following the end-Triassic extinction event.

Morphology & Preservation

This Promicroceras specimen displays the classic tightly coiled shell form of the genus, with clearly defined whorls and visible growth features that record the animal’s development throughout its life. Calcite replacement has preserved the original shell geometry while enhancing surface detail, giving the fossil a subtle crystalline appearance when viewed under light. The surrounding marl matrix remains intact, preserving the ammonite in its original geological context rather than as a detached shell, which adds to both its scientific and display value.

Scientific & Collecting Significance

Ammonites from Charmouth and Lyme Regis have been collected and studied for over two centuries and played a central role in the early development of geology and stratigraphic science. Promicroceras is particularly important within Early Jurassic ammonite successions and is widely referenced in academic and educational contexts. Fossils from Black Ven are internationally recognised for their reliable provenance, making them highly desirable to collectors, educators, and anyone seeking a classic example of British Jurassic marine life.

Display, Care & Authenticity

This fossil is well suited for display in a private collection, educational environment, or natural history cabinet. The specimen has been carefully cleaned to reveal its natural features, with no artificial restoration or reconstruction applied. It remains exactly as preserved by nature. You will receive the exact specimen shown, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its geological origin and genuine status.

A classic and scientifically meaningful ammonite from one of Britain’s most famous fossil localities, this Promicroceras calcite ammonite fossil represents an authentic and visually appealing piece of Early Jurassic marine history from the Jurassic Coast.