Pseudolioceras Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Whitby UK Genuine Specimen Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Genuine Jurassic Fossil – Pseudolioceras Ammonite

This listing is for a genuine Pseudolioceras Fossil Ammonite, collected from the world-renowned fossil beds of Runswick Bay, Whitby, United Kingdom. Dating to the Middle Lias (Lower Jurassic), around 180 million years ago, this specimen represents one of the most distinctive ammonites from the Whitby coast. It is a carefully chosen fossil, photographed individually so that you receive the exact specimen shown. Every purchase comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing the fossil’s provenance and genuine nature.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite was preserved within rocks from the Jurassic Period, specifically the Middle Lias, Pliensbachian stage. The Whitby and Runswick Bay coastline is world famous for its richly fossiliferous shales, which have yielded countless ammonites, belemnites, marine reptiles, and other ancient sea life. These deposits were laid down in a shallow marine basin, where fine muds and silts covered marine creatures soon after death, creating the perfect conditions for fossilisation. The fossil record of Whitby is internationally recognised, making it one of the most important Jurassic sites in Europe.

Fossil Type and Classification

This specimen belongs to the genus Pseudolioceras, a group of ammonites within the family Hildoceratidae, superfamily Hildoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. Ammonites were extinct cephalopods related to modern squids and cuttlefish, possessing coiled external shells divided into chambers. Pseudolioceras is noted for its ribbed shells and compressed form, making it a distinctive ammonite genus of the Lower Jurassic seas.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

The shell of Pseudolioceras displays several distinctive traits:

• Sharp, well-defined ribbing running across the flanks and continuing over the venter.
• Tightly coiled planispiral shell, forming a flat, symmetrical spiral.
• A moderate to narrow umbilicus, exposing the inner whorls.
• Compressed profile, giving the shell a refined, elegant appearance.

These features set Pseudolioceras apart from other ammonite genera, making it an important fossil for both scientific study and display. The pronounced ribbing provides a striking visual appeal, while the well-preserved coiling offers insight into the evolutionary adaptations of Jurassic cephalopods.

Biozone and Scientific Importance

Pseudolioceras species play a significant role in defining biozones within the Pliensbachian stage. Their abundance and recognisable morphology make them excellent index fossils, enabling geologists to date and correlate Jurassic strata across wide regions of Europe. Specimens like this are thus not only attractive for collectors but also represent key evidence in the study of Earth’s geological history.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Whitby region was covered by a shallow epicontinental sea. Fine muds accumulated on the seabed, entombing marine life such as ammonites, belemnites, and bivalves. Low-oxygen conditions in some layers enhanced fossil preservation, allowing the detailed shells of ammonites like Pseudolioceras to survive intact for millions of years. Today, these fossils are found in concretions or shales along the Yorkshire coast, often splitting open to reveal beautifully preserved specimens.

Historical and Collecting Significance

Whitby fossils have fascinated collectors for centuries, from early Victorian naturalists to modern enthusiasts. Ammonites like Pseudolioceras were once treasured for their beauty and even used in jewellery, while today they remain essential for both private collections and scientific reference. The combination of aesthetic appeal, geological importance, and historical connection makes this ammonite a superb addition to any fossil collection.

Authenticity and Presentation

• 100% Genuine Fossil Specimen
• Genus: Pseudolioceras
• Age: Jurassic, Middle Lias, approx. 180 million years old
• Location: Runswick Bay, Whitby, United Kingdom
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Scale cube shown in photographs = 1 cm for accurate sizing
• The fossil in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive

This Pseudolioceras ammonite fossil is an outstanding piece from Britain’s most famous fossil locality. A rare opportunity to own an authentic Jurassic ammonite, it represents both the natural history and scientific heritage of Whitby’s ancient seas.