Rare Deshayesites Deshayesi Ammonite Fossil Aptian Cretaceous Atherfield Isle of Wight UK

Description

Rare Deshayesites Deshayesi Ammonite Fossil from the Isle of Wight

This listing features a rare Deshayesites deshayesi ammonite fossil, originating from the Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous, approximately 125 to 113 million years old. Found at Atherfield on the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom, this specimen represents one of the most iconic and scientifically significant ammonites from British Cretaceous deposits. The fossil shown in the photographs is the actual specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate sizing. Every piece is carefully selected and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its provenance and genuine nature.

Geological Age and Provenance

The specimen was discovered within the Atherfield Clay Formation, a sequence of marine clays deposited during the Aptian stage. These rocks record a time of global sea-level rise, when the warm shallow seas of southern England supported a diverse marine ecosystem. The Atherfield locality is world-renowned for its fossil ammonites, with Deshayesites species forming an important part of the ammonite zonation system used to correlate Aptian rocks across Europe.

Scientific Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Deshayesitoidea
• Family: Deshayesitidae
• Genus: Deshayesites
• Species: Deshayesites deshayesi

Named in honour of the French naturalist Gérard Paul Deshayes, this species is considered a key index fossil for the Lower Aptian stage. Its presence has allowed geologists to define the Deshayesites deshayesi Zone, an internationally recognised biozone used for stratigraphic correlation.

Morphological Features

Deshayesites deshayesi is characterised by its moderately evolute shell, with visible whorls and sharp, well-developed ribbing. The ribs are typically simple and strong, radiating across the flanks before curving smoothly towards the venter. Unlike some of its relatives, this species shows fewer tubercles or nodes, resulting in a clean but striking rib pattern. Its streamlined form suggests it was a fast-swimming predator in open marine waters, preying on smaller molluscs and crustaceans.

The fossil offered here preserves the distinctive ribbing and coiled geometry that make Deshayesites both instantly recognisable and highly desirable to collectors.

Stratigraphic and Scientific Importance

The genus Deshayesites is of outstanding paleontological significance because of its role in defining Aptian ammonite zones. The Deshayesites deshayesi Zone in particular is a reference point for Aptian biostratigraphy across Europe and even beyond. The identification of this species in the Atherfield Clay confirms the precise age of the beds and contributes to our understanding of Early Cretaceous marine faunas, depositional environments, and evolutionary history.

Collector and Display Value

Owning a specimen of Deshayesites deshayesi from the Isle of Wight is a rare opportunity, especially given the species’ dual value as both a scientific index fossil and a collectible display piece. Its ribbed whorls and classic ammonite form make it a visually appealing fossil for display, while its geological importance makes it a highlight for any serious fossil collection.

Every specimen we provide is authentic, carefully prepared, and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. This fossil is not only a window into the ancient Cretaceous seas of England but also an important part of paleontological research history, now available as a genuine specimen for collectors and enthusiasts alike.