Rare Mollistephanus mollei Ammonite Fossil, Bajocian Stage Jurassic, Frogden Quarry Sherborne UK

Description

Genuine Jurassic Ammonite Fossil from England

This listing offers a Mollistephanus mollei ammonite fossil from the Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic, discovered at the renowned Frogden Quarry, Sherborne, United Kingdom. Known for its high-quality ammonite finds, Frogden Quarry has long been a significant site for both collectors and researchers. The fossil presented here is a carefully chosen specimen that highlights the distinctive features of the species.

Each fossil we provide is 100% authentic and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity, giving you full assurance of its genuineness. The photographs show the exact specimen available, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference.

Geological Context

The Bajocian stage (approximately 170–168 million years ago) represents an important part of the Jurassic period when shallow epicontinental seas covered much of what is now Europe. These warm, nutrient-rich waters were ideal habitats for ammonites, which thrived in great abundance and diversity.

Frogden Quarry, where this ammonite was found, is part of the classic fossil-bearing Jurassic strata of Dorset and Somerset, a region celebrated worldwide for its paleontological significance. The limestone and marl deposits here have preserved ammonites in excellent condition, allowing for both scientific study and collection.

Fossil Features and Morphology

Mollistephanus mollei is a distinctive ammonite within the family Stephanoceratidae, superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and the order Ammonitida. Its morphology is characterised by:

• Robust ribbing across the whorls, often bifurcating (splitting) as they cross the flanks.
• A moderately involute coiling style, with inner whorls partially visible in the umbilicus.
• Strong ornamentation, giving the shell a bold and textured appearance.
• A pronounced keel, which may have helped stabilise the ammonite in the Jurassic seas.

These features make Mollistephanus mollei both scientifically valuable and visually striking, reflecting the evolutionary adaptations of the time.

Scientific and Collectible Value

Ammonites such as Mollistephanus mollei are invaluable for biostratigraphy, helping geologists to date and correlate rock layers across different regions. The Bajocian stage is particularly well defined through ammonite zonation, with species like this serving as key index fossils.

For collectors, this specimen provides a direct link to the Middle Jurassic seas of southern England. Its ribbed whorls and classic preservation make it a desirable addition to any fossil collection, whether for educational purposes, display, or as part of a broader study of Jurassic ammonites.

Key Details of This Specimen

• Species: Mollistephanus mollei
• Age: Bajocian stage, Middle Jurassic (~170–168 million years old)
• Location: Frogden Quarry, Sherborne, United Kingdom
• Family: Stephanoceratidae
• Superfamily: Stephanoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen with Certificate of Authenticity
• Photographs: Show the exact specimen with a 1 cm scale cube

A Rare Opportunity

Owning a Mollistephanus mollei ammonite is a chance to preserve a tangible piece of Middle Jurassic history. This specimen from Frogden Quarry not only embodies the beauty and complexity of ammonites but also represents an important part of England’s geological and paleontological heritage. Its bold ribbing and Bajocian origin make it a fossil of both scientific interest and aesthetic appeal.

Scale cube = 1 cm. Please see photographs for accurate specimen sizing.