Description
Authentic Jurassic Ammonite from the UK
This specimen is a genuine Leptosphinctes ammonite fossil, originating from the Middle Bajocian stage of the Jurassic Period (approximately 170–168 million years ago). It was discovered at Burton Bradstock, Dorset, United Kingdom, a classic fossil locality situated on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich paleontological heritage. Every fossil in our collection is carefully selected for both its scientific and aesthetic qualities and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact ammonite you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for reference.
Geological Background
The Bajocian stage forms part of the Middle Jurassic and represents a critical interval in the evolutionary history of ammonites. During this time, marine environments across Europe were teeming with diverse molluscan life, and ammonites such as Leptosphinctes became highly abundant and geographically widespread. The sediments at Burton Bradstock were deposited in shallow epicontinental seas, consisting of fine-grained marine limestones and clays that provided ideal conditions for fossil preservation.
These marine deposits record not only the ammonite faunas but also provide important evidence of sea-level fluctuations and paleoenvironmental changes in the Jurassic seas of southern England.
Morphological Features of Leptosphinctes
The genus Leptosphinctes belongs to the order Ammonitida and the family Parkinsoniidae, a group characterised by its moderately ornate ribbing and elegant shell form. Key traits of Leptosphinctes include:
- Planispiral, tightly coiled shell with clearly visible whorls.
- Fine to moderately strong ribbing, sometimes bifurcating as it extends across the whorl.
- A relatively narrow umbilicus, typical of the genus.
- Streamlined ornamentation, demonstrating the evolutionary refinement of Bajocian ammonites.
These characteristics make specimens such as this not only attractive for collectors but also crucial for biostratigraphic work.
Scientific and Stratigraphic Importance
Ammonites like Leptosphinctes are highly regarded as index fossils, meaning they are used to date and correlate rock layers across wide geographic areas. Their rapid evolutionary changes and widespread distribution make them vital tools in Jurassic stratigraphy. Specimens from Burton Bradstock are especially significant because they help define biozones within the Middle Jurassic, making them useful both for professional research and for teaching purposes.
Collector and Display Value
This ammonite fossil is an excellent example of the natural artistry of ancient marine life. Its elegant ribbing and coiled form make it a striking display piece, whether for a museum, educational setting, or private collection. With its well-documented provenance from the famous Jurassic Coast, it carries both scientific importance and strong collector appeal.
Key Details
- Species: Leptosphinctes sp.
- Age: Middle Bajocian, Jurassic (~170–168 million years old)
- Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset, United Kingdom
- Order: Ammonitida
- Family: Parkinsoniidae
- Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
- Photography: Actual specimen shown, scale cube = 1 cm
A Classic Jurassic Coast Fossil
This Leptosphinctes ammonite fossil is more than just a collector’s item—it represents a tangible link to the marine ecosystems of the Middle Jurassic seas that once covered southern England. Its combination of scientific value, historical significance, and visual appeal make it an outstanding specimen for any serious fossil collection.
Scale cube = 1 cm. Please see photographs for accurate sizing of this specimen.
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