Description
Authentic Jurassic Ammonite from England
This listing is for a genuine Leptosphinctes fastigatus ammonite fossil, originating from the Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic. It was discovered in the renowned Frogden Quarry, Sherborne, United Kingdom, a site well known among paleontologists and fossil collectors for its rich ammonite-bearing strata. This carefully selected specimen represents both a scientifically valuable ammonite species and a striking natural history display piece.
Every fossil offered is 100% authentic and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for reference to ensure accurate sizing.
Geological Context
The Bajocian stage dates to around 170–168 million years ago, during the Middle Jurassic. It was a time when shallow seas covered much of Europe, providing an ideal marine environment for ammonites. The sedimentary deposits at Frogden Quarry record this period with remarkable clarity, preserving a diverse range of ammonites, brachiopods, and other marine organisms.
These ammonites are often used as index fossils because of their wide distribution and rapid evolutionary changes, making them key tools in dating Jurassic rock layers. The deposits of Dorset and Somerset, including Frogden Quarry, form part of the classic fossil-rich belt of southern England that has attracted collectors and scientists for centuries.
Fossil Description and Morphology
Leptosphinctes fastigatus belongs to the family Perisphinctidae, within the superfamily Perisphinctoidea, and the order Ammonitida. Its defining features include:
- Strong, bifurcating ribbing, with ribs branching as they cross the flanks.
- A compressed shell shape with a relatively open umbilicus, exposing inner whorls.
- Whorls that are well-defined, giving the ammonite a distinctive appearance.
- Ornamentation that is both diagnostic and aesthetically appealing.
The elegant rib pattern and coiling style make this ammonite easily recognisable and highly collectible.
Scientific and Collectible Importance
Ammonites such as Leptosphinctes fastigatus are of great importance to paleontology, not only for stratigraphic correlation but also for understanding evolutionary trends within the Perisphinctidae family. Their ribbing and coiling patterns provide key information on environmental adaptations in the Middle Jurassic seas.
For collectors, this ammonite from Frogden Quarry, Sherborne offers a chance to own a specimen from one of England’s historically important fossil localities. Its well-preserved structure makes it suitable for both educational purposes and as a display piece for private collections.
Features of This Specimen
- Species: Leptosphinctes fastigatus
- Age: Bajocian stage, Middle Jurassic (~170–168 million years old)
- Location: Frogden Quarry, Sherborne, Dorset/Somerset, United Kingdom
- Family: Perisphinctidae
- Superfamily: Perisphinctoidea
- Order: Ammonitida
- Authenticity: 100% genuine, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Photographs: Show exact specimen with scale cube for sizing
A Unique Piece of Jurassic History
Owning a Leptosphinctes fastigatus ammonite is like holding a piece of ancient ocean life from the Middle Jurassic seas of England. This specimen, from the classic fossil beds of Frogden Quarry, captures both the beauty and scientific significance of ammonites. Its ribbed shell and historic locality make it a treasured addition to any fossil collection or natural history display.
Scale cube = 1 cm. Please see photos for accurate specimen sizing.
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