Rare 4″ Epihoplites gibbosus Fossil Ammonite Gault Clay Albian Cretaceous Sussex UK Genuine Specimen with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Exceptional Epihoplites gibbosus Ammonite from the Gault Clay, Sussex, UK

This superb 4-inch Epihoplites gibbosus fossil ammonite originates from the Gault Clay Formation of Small Dole, Sussex, United Kingdom, dating to the Albian Stage of the Lower Cretaceous Period (approximately 113–100 million years ago). This genuine specimen represents an extraordinary example of one of the more ornate heteromorph ammonites of the mid-Cretaceous seas of Europe. Its preservation within the Gault Clay — a well-known marine deposit — provides a rare glimpse into the dynamic ecosystems that thrived along the ancient Cretaceous seaway that once covered southern England.

Geological Context and Formation

The Gault Clay Formation was deposited in a warm, shallow marine environment during the Albian, a time of rising sea levels and prolific ammonite evolution. This fine-grained clay preserved marine fauna with remarkable detail, often yielding fossils with subtle shell ornamentation intact. The sedimentation occurred under relatively calm offshore conditions, allowing delicate forms like Epihoplites gibbosus to fossilise in near-complete form. Specimens from the Sussex outcrops are particularly sought after due to their fine state of preservation and the presence of diagnostic features that help identify specific ammonite zones used in stratigraphic correlation.

Species Overview – Epihoplites gibbosus

Epihoplites gibbosus belongs to the family Hoplitidae within the superfamily Hoplitoidea, order Ammonitida. This species is characterised by its moderately involute shell, robust ribs, and pronounced tubercles adorning the flanks and ventrolateral margins. These rib and tubercle arrangements are diagnostic traits, reflecting the hydrodynamic and structural adaptations of mid-Cretaceous ammonites. The distinctive ribbing and inflated whorls make E. gibbosus one of the more easily recognisable members of the genus, often serving as a biostratigraphic index fossil for the upper Albian sequences.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Ammonites of the genus Epihoplites are important markers for dating and correlating Albian marine sediments across Europe. Their short stratigraphic range and rapid evolutionary changes make them valuable to both paleontologists and collectors alike. This specimen, being a beautifully preserved representative from the Sussex Gault Clay, bridges aesthetic appeal and scientific significance. Its naturally detailed surface texture and well-defined sutures capture the biological precision of this extinct cephalopod, which once thrived in warm Cretaceous seas alongside belemnites, inoceramid bivalves, and early teleost fish.

Authenticity and Presentation

This 100% genuine fossil has been carefully selected for its completeness and quality. The accompanying photograph shows the exact specimen you will receive, not a stock image. The ammonite displays classic Epihoplites morphology, preserved in natural Gault Clay matrix with subtle mineralisation that enhances its contrast and definition.

A Certificate of Authenticity is included with every purchase, verifying the fossil’s identity, locality, and geological provenance.

Details at a Glance

• Species: Epihoplites gibbosus
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Superfamily: Hoplitoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Age: Albian Stage, Lower Cretaceous (~113–100 million years ago)
• Formation: Gault Clay
• Locality: Small Dole, Sussex, United Kingdom
• Size: Approx. 4 inches (scale cube = 1cm; full sizing in photos)
• Condition: Natural, genuine fossil – unmodified except for gentle cleaning
• Included: Certificate of Authenticity

A Unique Collector’s Fossil

This Epihoplites gibbosus is a museum-quality fossil that embodies the elegance of Cretaceous marine life. Its rarity, well-preserved detail, and historical significance make it an exceptional acquisition for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of Earth’s deep past. Each specimen from the Gault Clay tells a story of ancient oceans, evolving life, and the enduring beauty of natural history captured in stone.