Rare Euhoplites loricatus Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Gault Clay Folkestone United Kingdom Authentic Certified

Description

Rare Euhoplites loricatus Ammonite Fossil

Presented here is a rare Euhoplites loricatus ammonite fossil, originating from the renowned Gault Clay Formation, dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period, and collected at Folkestone, United Kingdom. This specimen showcases the distinctive ribbing and intricate ornamentation that define the genus Euhoplites, making it an important fossil for both collectors and researchers. The photos provided display the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate sizing. As always, this is a 100% genuine fossil specimen, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Albian Stage (approximately 113–100.5 million years ago) is the final subdivision of the Early Cretaceous. During this time, southern England was submerged beneath a shallow sea, allowing for the deposition of the Gault Clay Formation. This marine unit, composed of richly fossiliferous clays, has become world-famous for yielding exceptionally preserved ammonites, mollusks, crustaceans, and vertebrate remains. The Folkestone exposures are especially important for their accessibility and for the wealth of material they provide to both scientists and collectors. Fossils such as Euhoplites loricatus are used as index fossils, meaning they are vital for correlating and dating rock layers on a global scale.

Taxonomy and Classification

Euhoplites loricatus belongs to the genus Euhoplites, within the family Hoplitidae, superfamily Hoplitaceae, and order Ammonitida. This genus is distinguished from other Hoplitidae by its ornate ribbing and prominent tuberculation. The specific name loricatus, meaning “armored,” reflects the heavily ornamented appearance of the shell. Species within this genus, including E. loricatus, are key faunal elements of the Lower Albian and serve as excellent markers within the ammonite zonal schemes of the Cretaceous.

Morphological Features

The shell of Euhoplites loricatus is moderately involute, with strong, dense ribs radiating from the umbilicus and crossing the flanks before sweeping over the venter. Prominent tubercles adorn the ribs, particularly at the ventrolateral margins, giving the shell a spiny, armored texture that is unique among Albian ammonites. The venter is narrow and ribbed, often with distinctive keel-like features. These morphological details not only make the fossil scientifically diagnostic but also highly attractive to collectors due to its sculptural and intricate natural beauty.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Euhoplites loricatus is one of the most important ammonites of the Lower Albian, frequently used in biostratigraphy to refine the ammonite zonal scheme of the Cretaceous. Its abundance in certain layers, coupled with its distinctive ornamentation, makes it invaluable for stratigraphic correlation. For collectors, fossils from the Gault Clay at Folkestone hold special significance, as the site has been studied for centuries and remains a cornerstone of British paleontology. This specimen represents both a scientific reference fossil and a highly desirable display piece, prized for its rarity and historical provenance.

Provenance and Authenticity

Collected from Folkestone, Kent, this specimen comes from one of the UK’s most celebrated fossil localities, known globally for its ammonite diversity and exceptional preservation. Each fossil is carefully chosen for authenticity, condition, and provenance. Every item is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, and secure packaging ensures it arrives safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Euhoplites loricatus ammonite fossil from the Albian Gault Clay of Folkestone, United Kingdom. With its ornate ribbing, armored tuberculation, and strong scientific significance, it represents an exceptional addition to any ammonite, Cretaceous fossil, or natural history collection.