Rare Lyelliceras lyelli Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Chulec Formation Machay Group Proya Peru Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Lyelliceras lyelli Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a rare Lyelliceras lyelli ammonite fossil, from the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group, dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period. It was collected in Proya, Peru, a locality renowned for producing scientifically significant ammonites from the Lower Cretaceous. This is the exact specimen shown in the photographs, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate measurement. 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, marks the final stage of the Early Cretaceous. It was a period of global high sea levels, when shallow marine environments covered vast areas of South America, providing excellent conditions for ammonite diversification. The Chulec Formation, part of the Machay Group, is one of Peru’s most important fossil-bearing formations. Composed of limestones and shales deposited in marine environments, it has produced an abundance of ammonite faunas that are vital for stratigraphic correlation. Fossils such as Lyelliceras lyelli offer insight into the ecosystems of these ancient seas and play a key role in biostratigraphic studies.

Taxonomy and Classification

Lyelliceras lyelli is a well-recognised species within the genus Lyelliceras, part of the family Lyelliceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. The genus is particularly significant within the Albian Stage, where it is widely used as a zonal ammonite for dating and correlating marine sediments. The species lyelli was originally described in the 19th century and has since become one of the classic index fossils of the Albian. Its global distribution and distinctive morphology make it an essential species for paleontologists studying the Early Cretaceous.

Morphological Features

The shell of Lyelliceras lyelli is robust, with strongly ribbed whorls that sweep outward in bold, radial patterns. The ribs often strengthen towards the venter, sometimes forming nodal swellings, giving the ammonite a highly sculptural appearance. Its whorls are moderately inflated, providing a compact yet powerful structure. These morphological features are characteristic of the genus and are crucial in its identification. This specimen displays these traits clearly, making it an excellent reference piece and a visually impressive fossil for display.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Lyelliceras lyelli are among the most important index fossils of the Albian. Their short stratigraphic ranges and widespread occurrence make them indispensable for biostratigraphy, allowing geologists to precisely date and correlate rock sequences across South America, Africa, and Europe. For collectors, this species is highly desirable because of its scientific importance, its striking ribbed morphology, and its provenance from the historically significant Chulec Formation of Peru. A specimen of this quality holds both research value and strong display appeal.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil comes from Proya, Peru, specifically from the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group, a globally significant Albian site. Every specimen we supply is hand-selected for its quality and preservation, and each is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure packaging and careful handling guarantee that your fossil will arrive safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Lyelliceras lyelli ammonite fossil from the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous, collected in the Chulec Formation of Proya, Peru. Combining scientific importance, rarity, and striking morphology, it is a superb addition to any ammonite, Cretaceous fossil, or natural history collection.