Description
Genuine Jurassic Ammonite Fossil
This listing offers a remarkable Skolekostephanus paolinum Ammonite Fossil from the Middle Bajocian Stage of the Jurassic, discovered in Burton Bradstock, Dorset, United Kingdom. Ammonites are extinct marine molluscs of the subclass Ammonoidea, closely related to squid and cuttlefish. Their distinctive coiled, chambered shells make them some of the most iconic and scientifically valuable fossils from the Jurassic seas. This specimen has been carefully selected for quality and preservation, with photographs showing the exact fossil you will receive. A 1 cm scale cube is included for reference.
Geological Context – Middle Bajocian, Jurassic
The Bajocian Stage of the Middle Jurassic, dating to around 170–168 million years ago, was a critical interval in ammonite evolution and diversification. The sediments of Burton Bradstock, Dorset, are part of the globally famous Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, an area celebrated for its extraordinary fossil record.
During this time, southern England was covered by shallow, warm seas that supported diverse marine life. Fine-grained sediments buried ammonite shells, preserving them in exquisite detail. These conditions created one of the richest ammonite-bearing localities in the world, with species such as Skolekostephanus paolinum playing a significant role as biostratigraphic markers, helping geologists date and correlate Jurassic rock layers.
Species Profile – Skolekostephanus paolinum
The species Skolekostephanus paolinum belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and family Stephanoceratidae. Ammonites within this group are known for their ornate shells, often with strong ribbing and pronounced ornamentation.
Notable features of Skolekostephanus paolinum include:
- A moderately involute shell with whorls partially enveloping the inner coils.
- Strong ribbing across the flanks, often bifurcating (splitting) towards the outer whorl.
- A prominent keel along the venter, giving the ammonite hydrodynamic efficiency.
- Complex suture lines, typical of the Stephanoceratidae family, highlighting evolutionary adaptations in shell construction.
These morphological traits make S. paolinum a distinctive and scientifically important ammonite species of the Bajocian seas.
Scientific and Collectible Importance
Ammonites such as Skolekostephanus paolinum are essential to paleontological research because of their rapid evolutionary turnover, which makes them reliable index fossils for Jurassic stratigraphy. Their presence helps geologists identify specific biozones within the Bajocian Stage and correlate rock layers across Europe.
For collectors, this fossil is both a scientific and aesthetic treasure. Its ribbed shell and well-preserved morphology provide insight into Jurassic marine ecosystems, while its origin from the renowned Burton Bradstock deposits enhances its provenance and value.
100% Genuine with Certificate of Authenticity
All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens. Each item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, giving full assurance that you are purchasing an authentic piece of natural history from the Jurassic Coast of England.
A Collector’s and Display Fossil
This Skolekostephanus paolinum ammonite fossil from Burton Bradstock is a striking addition to any fossil collection, museum display, or educational exhibit. Its combination of scientific significance, regional provenance, and natural beauty makes it an excellent acquisition for enthusiasts of Jurassic paleontology.
Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1 cm. Please see listing photos for the full sizing of this exact specimen.





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