Rare: 6″ Fossil Nautilus (Cymatoceras pseudelegans) | Aptian | Cretaceous | Maidstone, Kent, UK | Genuine Specimen + COA

Description

This listing features a rare 6″ fossilised Nautilus – Cymatoceras pseudelegans from the Aptian Stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, found near Maidstone, Kent, United Kingdom. This is a stunning and scientifically significant nautiloid specimen that offers a glimpse into the marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous seas that once covered southern England.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm. Please see the photo for full sizing.

The fossil shown is the exact specimen you will receive.

Fossil Classification and Morphological Features

• Fossil Type: Nautiloid Cephalopod
• Genus: Cymatoceras
• Species: Cymatoceras pseudelegans
• Order: Nautilida
• Family: Cymatoceratidae
• Superfamily: Nautiloidea
• Geological Stage: Aptian
• Age: Approx. 125 to 113 million years ago

Morphology & Notable Features:

• Distinctively ribbed (costate) whorls with evenly spaced growth ridges
• Involute and moderately compressed shell form
• Large size for species; rarely preserved at this scale from UK localities
• Smooth suture lines, characteristic of nautiloids
• Well-preserved shell surface and internal chamber structure

Geological Context

• Locality: Maidstone, Kent, United Kingdom
• Formation: Lower Greensand (or associated Aptian marine strata)
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine shelf with fine-grained sediments ideal for fossil preservation
• Paleoenvironment: Warm epicontinental sea with rich molluscan fauna and ammonite diversity
• Biozone: Although not zoned by ammonites directly, this nautilus falls within the same interval as the Deshayesites forbesi ammonite zone (typical of the Aptian)

Scientific Significance

Cymatoceras pseudelegans is an uncommon nautiloid fossil in UK collections, especially from Kent. It belongs to a group that persisted through the Mesozoic while ammonites diversified and dominated. This specimen’s preservation is excellent, with clear morphological features used in academic studies of nautiloid evolution and stratigraphy.

Its rarity from Maidstone adds further collector appeal, especially for those focusing on British Cretaceous palaeontology.

What You Will Receive

• The exact fossil Cymatoceras pseudelegans pictured
• Certificate of Authenticity
• Professionally packed with secure and careful transit preparation
• Tracked shipping (UK and international available)

This is a top-quality display fossil with strong geological and educational value. Whether you’re a collector, palaeontology enthusiast, or educational institution, this piece is sure to stand out in any collection.