Rare Paltechioceras auriolum Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Radstock UK Genuine Authentic COA

Description

Authentic Jurassic Fossil from Radstock, UK

This rare Paltechioceras auriolum ammonite fossil is an exceptional specimen from the Upper Sinemurian stage of the Early Jurassic, discovered in Radstock, Somerset, United Kingdom. It represents an extinct marine cephalopod preserved for nearly 195 million years, offering both scientific significance and natural beauty. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate size reference. Every fossil is guaranteed authentic and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Provenance

The fossil originates from the Upper Sinemurian stage of the Lower Jurassic, dating back approximately 197–190 million years. At this time, the Radstock area lay beneath shallow epicontinental seas that stretched across Europe. These seas deposited fine silts and mudstones on the seabed, creating excellent fossilisation conditions. Ammonites such as Paltechioceras auriolum thrived in these environments, leaving behind shells that would eventually become preserved within the Lower Lias formations. These deposits are world-renowned for producing ammonites of outstanding clarity and scientific value.

Species Identification and Classification

Paltechioceras auriolum is a member of the class Cephalopoda, order Ammonitida, and belongs to the family Echioceratidae. This genus is recognised for its relatively small to medium-sized, planispiral shells with distinctive ribbing and whorl structures. The species auriolum is a key ammonite used in Sinemurian biozonation, making it scientifically important as well as highly collectable. Its presence in Jurassic strata provides researchers with crucial data for understanding marine faunal succession during this stage.

Morphology and Distinctive Traits

The specimen displays the characteristic features of Paltechioceras auriolum, including elegant ribbing, compressed whorls, and symmetrical coiling. The ribs are fine and evenly spaced, sweeping across the flanks of the shell in a graceful pattern. This ornamentation enhances the fossil’s aesthetic appeal while also serving as a diagnostic trait for species identification. The compressed shell form and delicate ribbing reflect adaptations to the marine environment, possibly related to shell strength and hydrodynamics as the ammonite moved through Jurassic seas.

Scientific and Stratigraphic Importance

Paltechioceras auriolum is significant in paleontology as it is closely associated with the Auriolum Subzone, a subdivision of the raricostatum ammonite biozone in the Upper Sinemurian. Its use as an index fossil allows geologists to date and correlate sedimentary layers across wide geographic regions with precision. Fossils like this one are invaluable for reconstructing Jurassic ecosystems and provide insight into evolutionary developments within the Echioceratidae family. For collectors, owning a specimen of auriolum is to possess a scientifically important fossil that has been central to Jurassic stratigraphy.

Condition and Presentation

The fossil has been professionally prepared to ensure that its key features remain clearly visible. Ribbing, whorl development, and shell form are sharply defined, highlighting the traits that make this ammonite so distinctive. This is not a reproduction or cast—it is a unique, genuine specimen formed millions of years ago. The photographs provided show the actual ammonite fossil you will receive, giving you complete confidence in its authenticity and presentation.

Guarantee of Authenticity

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, responsibly sourced and scientifically identified. Each purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity to verify provenance. This rare Paltechioceras auriolum ammonite fossil from Radstock is an outstanding example of Sinemurian ammonites, making it a superb addition for fossil collectors, natural history enthusiasts, and educators alike.