Rare: 7″ Fossil Nautilus (Cenoceras elegans) | Aptian | Cretaceous | Isle of Wight UK | Genuine Fossil + COA

Description

This listing is for a rare and genuine 7″ fossil Nautilus – Cenoceras elegans, from the Aptian Stage of the Lower Cretaceous, discovered at St Catherine’s Point, Isle of Wight, United Kingdom.

A visually striking and scientifically significant specimen, this fossil provides a window into early Cretaceous marine environments, estimated to be around 120 to 113 million years old.

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

Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm. Full sizing details are shown in the photo.

You will receive the exact specimen pictured.

Fossil Classification and Morphology

• Fossil Type: Nautiloid Cephalopod
• Genus: Cenoceras
• Species: Cenoceras elegans
• Order: Nautilida
• Family: Nautilidae
• Superfamily: Nautiloidea
• Morphology Features:
• Involute, gently coiled shell
• Rounded whorls with smooth or faintly ribbed flanks
• Central siphuncle, a key nautiloid trait
• Subtle suture patterns
• Well-preserved shell structure indicative of quiet water deposition
• Notable Aspects: Larger than average Aptian specimens; very rare from this specific UK locality

Geological & Stratigraphic Context

• Locality: St Catherine’s Point, Isle of Wight, UK
• Stratigraphy: Lower Cretaceous
• Stage: Aptian
• Age: Approximately 120–113 million years ago
• Formation: Likely associated with Lower Greensand Group or localised Wealden transitional facies
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine shelf, likely with low-energy conditions allowing for excellent fossil preservation
• Biozone: No precise ammonite zonation for nautiloids; broadly within Aptian ammonite biozones

Scientific and Collector Significance

Cenoceras elegans is a nautiloid species with a wide historical range, but high-quality Lower Cretaceous specimens from British localities like the Isle of Wight are rare. Its excellent preservation, large size, and stratigraphic position make it both a desirable collector’s piece and a valuable addition for educational or research purposes.

What You Will Receive

• The exact Cenoceras elegans specimen shown
• Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
• Secure packaging for safe transit
• Tracked shipping (UK and international options available)

If you are looking for a distinctive and display-worthy fossil from Britain’s rich Cretaceous heritage, this rare Cenoceras elegans from St Catherine’s Point is an exceptional find.