Rare Echioceras raricostatum Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Ukraine Genuine Authentic COA

Description

Authentic Jurassic Fossil from Ukraine

This rare Echioceras raricostatum ammonite fossil is a genuine specimen from the Lower Sinemurian stage of the Early Jurassic, collected from the Raricostatum Zone at Pryborzhavs’ke Quarry, located 16 km east of Irshava in south-western Ukraine. A carefully chosen piece, it provides both scientific and collector value, with clear preservation of the diagnostic features of its species. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. Each fossil is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing provenance and authenticity.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite dates to the Lower Sinemurian stage, approximately 197–190 million years ago, during the Early Jurassic. At this time, the area now known as south-western Ukraine was part of a shallow marine environment that formed within the Tethys Ocean’s northern margins. Sediments of fine clays and silts were deposited across the sea floor, creating excellent conditions for the preservation of marine fauna. The Raricostatum Zone is internationally recognised as a key ammonite biozone of the Lower Sinemurian, making fossils from this horizon especially valuable for both collectors and geological research.

Species Identification and Classification

Echioceras raricostatum is classified within the class Cephalopoda, order Ammonitida, and family Echioceratidae. Ammonites of this genus are notable for their compressed, planispiral shells with distinctive ribbing patterns. The species raricostatum is particularly important because it defines the Raricostatum Zone, a globally recognised ammonite biozone used by geologists for precise dating and correlation of Sinemurian strata. Its distinct shell morphology and clear stratigraphic association make it a scientifically significant species as well as a prized fossil for collectors.

Morphology and Distinctive Traits

This specimen demonstrates the key features of Echioceras raricostatum. The whorls are compressed and tightly coiled, with ribs that are strong but relatively widely spaced compared to other ammonites of the same stage. The ribbing extends cleanly across the flanks, forming a striking and easily recognisable pattern. These traits are diagnostic of the species and help paleontologists distinguish it from related ammonites. The shell’s compressed form and ribbing would have provided hydrodynamic efficiency while also strengthening the structure of the shell, aiding survival in Jurassic seas.

Scientific and Stratigraphic Importance

Echioceras raricostatum holds a pivotal role in Early Jurassic paleontology. As the defining fossil of the Raricostatum Zone, it serves as an index fossil for the Lower Sinemurian, allowing geologists to accurately date and correlate sedimentary rocks across Europe and beyond. Its widespread distribution and clear morphological features make it a cornerstone of Jurassic biostratigraphy. For collectors, owning such a specimen means holding a fossil that has been central to paleontological and stratigraphic research for more than a century.

Condition and Presentation

The fossil has been carefully prepared to reveal its natural features while ensuring durability for long-term preservation. The ribbing and shell form are clearly defined, making this a visually striking and scientifically valuable piece. This is a one-of-a-kind specimen—not a reproduction or cast. The photographs provided are of the actual fossil you will receive, offering complete transparency and buyer confidence.

Guarantee of Authenticity

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, responsibly sourced and scientifically identified. Each specimen is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity to confirm provenance. This rare Echioceras raricostatum ammonite fossil from the Raricostatum Zone of Pryborzhavs’ke Quarry, Ukraine, is a scientifically important and highly desirable piece, perfect for fossil collectors, natural history enthusiasts, and educational collections.