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

Description

Rare Hoplites spath Ammonite Fossil

This listing features a rare Hoplites spath ammonite fossil from the Gault Clay Formation, dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected at Folkestone, United Kingdom. The specimen represents an excellent example of this important genus, showing the ribbing and shell form typical of Hoplites, one of the most significant ammonite groups of the Lower Cretaceous. The photographs display the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm cube included for precise size reference. As with all of our items, 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) marks the final subdivision of the Early Cretaceous and was a time of high sea levels and flourishing marine life. The Gault Clay Formation of southern England, particularly the Folkestone area of Kent, is one of the world’s most famous fossil-bearing deposits from this period. Composed of dark marine clays, the Gault was deposited in a shallow epicontinental sea that connected with the greater Tethys Ocean. It is internationally known for its exceptionally preserved ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, crustaceans, and fish remains. Fossils from this formation have played a central role in refining the biostratigraphy of the Albian across Europe.

Taxonomy and Classification

Hoplites spath belongs to the genus Hoplites, within the family Hoplitidae, superfamily Hoplitaceae, and order Ammonitida. Members of the genus are characterised by their distinctive ribbed shells and their role as highly important index fossils for the Lower Albian. The name “spath” refers to the British paleontologist Leonard Frank Spath, who described and refined many ammonite classifications in the early 20th century. Specimens of this genus remain central to scientific work on Cretaceous ammonite faunas and stratigraphy.

Morphological Features

The shell of Hoplites spath is moderately involute, with later whorls partly concealing earlier ones. Strong, closely spaced ribs radiate from the umbilicus and extend across the flanks, frequently bifurcating before sweeping over the venter. The ribs give the shell a sharply defined, ornate appearance, which makes the fossil both scientifically diagnostic and visually appealing. The venter is generally narrow and ribbed, consistent with other Hoplitidae. This particular specimen preserves these features with clarity, offering a textbook example of the genus.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Hoplites spath are of great importance in biostratigraphy, serving as precise index fossils for the Lower Albian. Their distinctive morphology and limited stratigraphic range make them vital tools for dating and correlating marine deposits across Europe and beyond. For collectors, this fossil offers a rare chance to own a specimen from the world-renowned Gault Clay of Folkestone, a classic and historically significant locality. Its strong ribbing, excellent preservation, and rarity in private collections make it a prized addition for both amateur and professional collectors of natural history.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite was collected from Folkestone, Kent, a site famous worldwide for its fossil-rich Gault Clay deposits. Every fossil we supply is carefully selected for quality, authenticity, and provenance. Each specimen is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, and secure packaging ensures it arrives safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Hoplites spath ammonite fossil from the Albian Gault Clay of Folkestone, United Kingdom. With its bold ribbing, excellent scientific significance, and historic provenance, it is a remarkable addition to any ammonite, Cretaceous fossil, or natural history collection.