Rare 8″ Fossil Ammonite Glaucolithes glaucolithus Tithonian Cretaceous Tisbury Quarry UK Genuine

Description

This is a rare and remarkable 8″ fossil ammonite of the species Glaucolithes glaucolithus, originating from the Tithonian stage (Late Jurassic, close to the Jurassic-Cretaceous boundary), collected from the historic Tisbury Quarry in Wiltshire, United Kingdom.

This impressive specimen showcases excellent preservation and intricate natural ribbing, with a beautiful three-dimensional structure typical of this genus. The fossil has been meticulously prepared to display both its natural form and fine morphological details, making it a museum-grade display piece.

• Fossil Type: Ammonite (extinct marine cephalopod)
• Species: Glaucolithes glaucolithus
• Size: Approx. 8 inches in diameter (scale rule shown in photo – 1cm per cube)
• Geological Period: Tithonian (Late Jurassic)
• Formation: Likely upper part of the Portland Group or lowermost Purbeck Beds
• Locality: Tisbury Quarry, Wiltshire, England, UK
• Preservation: Natural, with surface cleaning and stabilisation only. No restoration.

Geological & Scientific Significance:

Glaucolithes is a lesser-known but scientifically significant genus of ammonite, typically linked to Tithonian marine environments in what is now southern England. These ammonites belong to the superfamily Perisphinctoidea, within the order Ammonitida, and their morphological features suggest a platyconic coiling with pronounced ribbing and suture patterns.

The Tithonian stage represents the final subdivision of the Jurassic period (~152 to 145 million years ago), a time of extensive marine biodiversity and complex ecological networks. The depositional environment of the Tisbury area during the Late Jurassic was a warm, shallow, epicontinental sea rich in marine life, including ammonites, marine reptiles, and early bivalves.

While no formal biozone assignment is available for this specific specimen, ammonites such as Glaucolithes glaucolithus have been used in biostratigraphy to mark transitional faunal assemblages near the Jurassic-Cretaceous boundary.

Notable Features:

• Sharp ribbing and suture definition characteristic of Tithonian ammonites.
• Large size and completeness are uncommon for this locality.
• Deep brown patina on limestone matrix, contrasting beautifully with fossil detail.

Authenticity Guaranteed: All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens. This item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring provenance and scientific integrity.

Photo Disclosure: You will receive the exact item shown in the photographs. The cube scale is marked in centimetres (1cm per square) for precise measurement.

Whether you’re a collector, academic, or enthusiast, this Glaucolithes glaucolithus fossil is a striking addition to any fossil, geological, or natural history collection.