Rare Lyelliceras lyelli Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Chulec Formation Machay Group Proya Peru Authentic Certified

Description

Rare Lyelliceras lyelli Ammonite Fossil

This listing features a rare Lyelliceras lyelli ammonite fossil, dating from the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected from the Chulec Formation, Machay Group, Proya, Peru. This specimen is an excellent representation of an Albian ammonite, displaying the distinctive shell form and ribbing characteristic of the genus. The photographs show the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm cube included for precise size reference. Every fossil we sell is a 100% genuine specimen and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Albian Stage (approximately 113–100.5 million years ago) represents the final stage of the Early Cretaceous. During this interval, warm climates and elevated sea levels supported diverse marine ecosystems across the globe. The Chulec Formation, part of the Machay Group in central Peru, is a world-renowned stratigraphic unit for its rich assemblage of ammonites and other marine invertebrates. Its sedimentary layers consist primarily of limestone and shale, deposited in a shallow epicontinental sea connected to the wider Tethys Ocean. Fossils from this formation are highly significant for biostratigraphy, providing vital information for correlating Albian deposits throughout South America and beyond.

Taxonomy and Classification

Lyelliceras lyelli is assigned to the genus Lyelliceras, within the family Lyelliceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. The Lyelliceratidae are particularly characteristic of the Albian, with robust shells and diagnostic ribbing patterns that make them excellent zonal fossils. The species lyelli is one of the most important representatives of this group, first described in the 19th century and still widely used in stratigraphic correlation today. Its global recognition and occurrence make it a reference species for Albian ammonite research.

Morphological Features

The shell of Lyelliceras lyelli is robust, with moderately involute whorls that partly conceal earlier growth. Strong, regularly spaced ribs radiate across the flanks and extend cleanly over the venter, producing a bold sculptural pattern. This ribbing gives the fossil a distinctive appearance and adds strength to the shell. The venter is typically broad and rounded, with ribs crossing uninterrupted. These features not only make the ammonite visually striking but also scientifically diagnostic. The offered specimen preserves these characteristics clearly, making it an outstanding example for both study and display.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Lyelliceras lyelli are highly significant in biostratigraphy, serving as key index fossils for the Albian Stage. Their relatively restricted stratigraphic range and distinctive morphology make them ideal for correlating rock sequences across distant geographic regions. For collectors, this specimen represents a rare opportunity to obtain an ammonite from the celebrated Chulec Formation of Peru, a locality known for its scientific importance and rarity in the fossil market. Its combination of rarity, strong morphology, and clear provenance makes it highly desirable for both amateur and professional collectors.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite was collected in Proya, Peru, from the Chulec Formation, Machay Group, one of South America’s most important Cretaceous fossil-bearing units. Each fossil we sell is carefully chosen for preservation, authenticity, and scientific value. Every specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, and professional, secure packaging ensures that your fossil arrives in excellent condition.

This is a rare Lyelliceras lyelli ammonite fossil from the Albian of Proya, Peru. With its robust ribbed shell, historical significance, and rarity, it is a superb addition to any collection of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.