Rare Hildaites merleyi Ammonite Fossil, Toarcian Stage Jurassic, Authentic Northants UK Collectors Specimen with COA

Description

Authentic Jurassic Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a genuine Hildaites merleyi Ammonite Fossil from the Toarcian Stage of the Early Jurassic period, discovered in Northamptonshire, United Kingdom. Ammonites are extinct marine cephalopods belonging to the subclass Ammonoidea, relatives of modern squid and cuttlefish. Their iconic spiral shells are highly prized by collectors and geologists alike. This carefully selected specimen reflects the unique features of Hildaites merleyi, and the photographs show the exact ammonite you will receive. A 1 cm scale cube is included for accurate size reference.

Geological Context – Toarcian, Jurassic

The Toarcian Stage, dating to approximately 182–174 million years ago, represents a critical interval in the Early Jurassic. It is a stage noted for dynamic environmental shifts, including the Early Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, which affected marine ecosystems worldwide. In what is now Northamptonshire, shallow marine conditions allowed for the accumulation of fine-grained sediments that buried and preserved ammonites in exceptional detail.

The Toarcian ammonite faunas of Britain are globally important for stratigraphic research. Ammonites from this stage are used as index fossils, meaning they help paleontologists precisely date and correlate rock layers across Europe and beyond. Fossils such as Hildaites merleyi are especially valuable in this regard.

Species Profile – Hildaites merleyi

The ammonite Hildaites merleyi belongs to the family Hildoceratidae, within the superfamily Hildoceratoidea, order Ammonitida. This family is characterised by compressed shells, distinct ribbing, and planispiral coiling. Hildaites species are particularly significant in Jurassic stratigraphy, with Hildaites merleyi associated with specific ammonite zones within the Toarcian Stage.

Key features of Hildaites merleyi include:

• A compressed shell with moderately involute coiling.
• Closely spaced ribbing, which strengthens across the flanks.
• Visible suture lines, revealing the complex internal divisions of the shell chambers.
• An elegant whorl expansion that highlights the hydrodynamic efficiency of these cephalopods.

These traits make Hildaites merleyi an important ammonite for paleontological research and a visually striking addition to any fossil collection.

Paleoenvironment and Scientific Value

During the Toarcian, Northamptonshire was covered by shallow seas teeming with life. Ammonites such as Hildaites merleyi were active swimmers, feeding on smaller marine organisms. Their shells, upon sinking to the seafloor, were preserved within the marine sediments that now form part of Britain’s rich Jurassic record.

The presence of Hildaites merleyi in Toarcian strata provides geologists with precise biostratigraphic markers for defining ammonite biozones. Collectors value such fossils not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their scientific importance in reconstructing the evolutionary and geological history of the Jurassic seas.

100% Genuine with Certificate of Authenticity

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. This ammonite is not a replica or reproduction, but an authentic relic preserved in stone for nearly 180 million years.

A Collector’s and Display Specimen

This Hildaites merleyi ammonite fossil from Northants, UK is ideal for fossil enthusiasts, students of geology, and serious collectors of natural history. Its combination of geological importance, scientific significance, and natural beauty ensures it will stand out as a unique specimen in any collection or display.

Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1 cm. Please see listing photos for the full sizing of this actual specimen.