Rare Hoplites dentatus Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Gault Clay Folkestone United Kingdom Authentic Certified

Description

Rare Hoplites dentatus Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Hoplites dentatus ammonite fossil, originating from the Gault Clay Formation, dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period, and collected at Folkestone, United Kingdom. The specimen is a superb example of this historically important ammonite, showing the characteristic ribbing and fine shell structure for which the genus Hoplites is renowned. The photographs provided show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. As always, this is a 100% genuine fossil specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Albian Stage (approximately 113–100.5 million years ago) represents the closing phase of the Early Cretaceous, a time when much of southern England was submerged beneath shallow seas. The Gault Clay Formation of Kent, particularly the famous exposures at Folkestone, is one of the world’s most important fossil-bearing units of this age. These marine clays were deposited in a shallow epicontinental sea connected to the greater Tethys Ocean. The Gault Clay is exceptionally fossiliferous, producing ammonites, gastropods, bivalves, crustaceans, and fish remains, but it is the ammonites—such as Hoplites dentatus—that provide crucial data for stratigraphy and evolutionary studies.

Taxonomy and Classification

Hoplites dentatus belongs to the genus Hoplites, within the family Hoplitidae, superfamily Hoplitaceae, and order Ammonitida. This genus is one of the most significant in Early Cretaceous ammonite research, providing key index fossils for dating and correlating Lower Albian deposits across Europe. The species name dentatus refers to its distinctive ribbing and tuberculation, which make it a readily identifiable taxon within the genus. Fossils of H. dentatus are widely used in zonal schemes for the Albian, highlighting their scientific importance.

Morphological Features

The shell of Hoplites dentatus is strongly ribbed and moderately involute, with later whorls partially covering earlier coils. Its ribs are sharp, robust, and often bifurcate as they extend outward, continuing unbroken across the venter. Characteristic tubercles can be observed along the umbilical and ventrolateral regions, giving the shell a textured, ornamented appearance. The venter is typically narrow with ribs forming strong ridges. These features not only aid in the precise identification of the species but also enhance its visual appeal, making it highly desirable for collectors.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Hoplites dentatus holds a key role in biostratigraphy of the Lower Albian, serving as a zonal ammonite that helps geologists precisely date and correlate rock layers. Its distinct ornamentation and relatively narrow stratigraphic range make it an invaluable index fossil. For collectors, specimens from the Folkestone Gault Clay are especially sought after, given the site’s international reputation and historical role in paleontological studies. This particular fossil represents not only a scientific reference point but also a striking display piece from one of the UK’s most celebrated fossil localities.

Provenance and Authenticity

Collected from the Gault Clay Formation at Folkestone, Kent, this specimen is part of a locality renowned worldwide for its rich Albian fossil record. Each fossil we supply is carefully selected for preservation, authenticity, and provenance. Every specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, and all items are securely packaged to ensure safe delivery.

This is a rare Hoplites dentatus ammonite fossil from the Albian Gault Clay of Folkestone, United Kingdom. With its sharp ribbing, diagnostic features, and historical importance, it is a remarkable addition to any ammonite, Cretaceous fossil, or natural history collection.