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Laevaptychus latus Fossil Ammonite Jaw Part or Protective Cover Aalenian | Jurassic | Lombardi, Italy | Alice Purnell Collection

Original price was: £42.00.Current price is: £33.60.

This listing features a rare fossil specimen of Laevaptychus latus, a fascinating piece still under scientific debate as to whether it represents the jaw parts or a protective cover of an ammonite. This exceptional fossil comes from the Aalenian stage of the Jurassic period (~175 million years ago) and was discovered in Lombardi, Italy. It is a highly collectible item, ideal for fossil enthusiasts, researchers, and collectors alike.

Key Features:

  • Type: Laevaptychus latus fossil (Ammonite jaw part or protective cover)
  • Geological Period: Aalenian, Jurassic (~175 million years ago)
  • Location: Lombardi, Italy
  • Condition: Well-preserved fossil with intricate natural details
  • Provenance: From the prestigious Alice Purnell Collection

About Laevaptychus latus:

Laevaptychus latus is a species that has intrigued paleontologists for decades. These fossils are believed to be part of an ammonite’s anatomy, though their precise role remains debated. Some theories suggest they functioned as jaw parts used for feeding, while others propose they acted as a protective operculum or cover for the ammonite’s shell. Either way, they provide invaluable insight into the biology and behavior of ancient marine life.

Historical and Scientific Importance:

Fossils like Laevaptychus latus contribute to our understanding of ammonite anatomy and their role in Jurassic marine ecosystems. Their presence helps reconstruct the evolutionary history of mollusks and sheds light on the ecological niches ammonites occupied during the Jurassic period.

Provenance and Authenticity:

This fossil is part of the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest and most respected collections of ammonites in the world. A Certificate of Authenticity accompanies this specimen, verifying its genuine origin and geological significance.

Why This Fossil Is Special:

  1. Rare Fossil: Specimens like Laevaptychus latus are seldom available in such excellent condition.
  2. Scientific Debate: Its debated role as either a jaw part or protective cover makes it an exciting piece for research or display.
  3. Prestigious Collection: Belonging to the Alice Purnell Collection, it has exceptional provenance and historical value.
  4. Aesthetic and Scientific Appeal: With its distinct features, this fossil is both a collector’s item and a centerpiece for display.

What’s Included:

  • Laevaptychus latus fossil, as shown in the photographs
  • Certificate of Authenticity, detailing the fossil’s origin, species, and geological context

Display and Collectability:

This fossil is ideal for both scientific study and display. Its unique features and historical intrigue make it a captivating conversation starter and a valuable addition to any fossil collection. Perfect for museums, educational institutions, or private collectors.

Additional Information:

The fossil has been carefully prepared to showcase its intricate details and natural texture. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Don’t miss the chance to own this rare and intriguing Laevaptychus latus fossil from Lombardi, Italy. Whether for scientific exploration or personal collection, this piece offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient marine world of the Jurassic period. Add this unique specimen to your collection today!

(Actual as seen)

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SKU: AF0139 Category:

Description

Identification and Geological Context

This listing features Laevaptychus latus, a fossil associated with an ammonite and presented as an important subject in palaeontological discussion. Laevaptychus remains debated as to whether it represents ammonite jaw parts or a protective cover. This distinctive uncertainty makes the specimen especially interesting for collectors who appreciate fossils that contribute to the study of ammonite anatomy, behaviour and classification.

The specimen is identified as Aalenian, Jurassic. The Aalenian is a recognised stage of the Jurassic Period, placing this fossil within an important interval of Earth history represented by marine fossil discoveries. Its stated location is Lombardi, Italy.

Collector Interest

Laevaptychus latus is a compelling addition to a fossil collection because it is connected with fossil ammonites while also representing an unresolved scientific interpretation. The ongoing debate over whether these structures functioned as jaw parts or as a protective cover gives the fossil educational value beyond its visual appeal. It can be displayed as a conversation piece, used in a palaeontology teaching collection, or appreciated as part of a broader Jurassic fossil display.

The specimen is also connected with the Alice Purnell Collection, adding collection history to its presentation. Its identification, Jurassic age designation and association with ammonites make it suitable for collectors interested in invertebrate palaeontology, Jurassic fossils and the morphology of extinct marine organisms.

Specimen Details

Fossil identification: Laevaptychus latus

Geological age designation: Aalenian, Jurassic Location: Lombardi, Italy Collection: From the Alice Purnell Collection

Full sizing is shown in the photographs. The images are intended to provide the clearest view of the actual specimen and its presentation.

Certificate and Photograph Information

This Fossil is a genuine specimen and Includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card.

The photograph shows the actual specimen you will receive.

Display and Educational Use

This Laevaptychus latus fossil is well suited to a personal fossil cabinet, ammonite-themed display or educational collection focused on Jurassic palaeontology. It offers a direct connection to the study of fossilised structures associated with ammonites and demonstrates how interpretation can remain an active part of scientific research. Collectors may value it both for its named identification and for the broader questions it raises about the function of Laevaptychus remains.

Its Aalenian Jurassic designation provides a clear geological context, while the Lombardi, Italy location and connection to the Alice Purnell Collection give the specimen a defined place within a curated fossil collection. This is a distinctive fossil specimen for anyone interested in ammonites, Jurassic marine life, fossil anatomy and the continuing investigation of unusual palaeontological remains.

Additional information

Weight 0.1 g
Dimensions 10 × 10 × 10 cm

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