RARE: Thomelites sornayi British Chalk Ammonite Fossil – Cenomanian Cretaceous Glynde East Sussex UK – Certified Authentic

Description

RARE THOMELITES SORNAYI FOSSIL AMMONITE

We are proud to offer this rare and scientifically notable fossil ammonite: Thomelites sornayi, from the renowned Glynde locality in East Sussex, United Kingdom. This species originates from the Cenomanian stage of the Cretaceous period and is part of the well-curated and respected Alice Purnell Collection.

You will receive the exact fossil shown in the images. The scale shown uses 1cm square rule cubes—please refer to the photo for exact sizing.

This is a 100% genuine fossil specimen and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Fossil Classification:

• Species: Thomelites sornayi
• Genus: Thomelites
• Family: Acanthoceratidae
• Superfamily: Acanthoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Common Name: Fossil Ammonite

Geological & Stratigraphic Details:

• Geological Period: Cretaceous
• Stage: Cenomanian (Approx. 100.5 to 93.9 million years ago)
• Formation: Chalk Group (Lower Chalk)
• Locality: Glynde, East Sussex, United Kingdom
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine shelf environment characterised by fine calcareous sedimentation and occasional marl bands, part of the classic British Chalk Sea system.

Morphological Features:

Thomelites sornayi is a relatively rare ammonite distinguished by its compressed, discoidal shell, with moderately involute coiling and fine ribbing. The ornamentation tends to be subtle, with smooth ventral areas and evenly spaced primary ribs that fade toward the outer whorls. The suture lines are complex but less elaborately frilled than in some other Acanthoceratidae.

This genus is particularly prized among collectors due to its rarity in the British chalk and the clarity of its diagnostic features when well-preserved.

Palaeontological Importance:

Thomelites sornayi is a biostratigraphically significant ammonite, sometimes used in correlation with other Cenomanian faunal zones, though not a primary zonal index itself. Its presence helps to refine biozonation frameworks within the mid-Cretaceous chalk deposits of southern England.

Its occurrence in Glynde and nearby areas is well-documented in regional fossil literature and adds considerable value to this piece for collectors and researchers alike.

Provenance:

This specimen comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, known for its high-quality, locality-authenticated fossil material. The collection focuses on fossils from classic British Jurassic and Cretaceous sites and is respected for scientific integrity and presentation.

Condition & Authenticity:

• Genuine fossil; not a replica or cast
• Professionally cleaned and preserved
• Display-ready with visible diagnostic features
• Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Ethically sourced and legally collected

This rare Thomelites sornayi ammonite fossil is an excellent opportunity to own a part of British palaeontological history. Ideal for collectors, educators, and display, this piece reflects the ancient marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous seas that once covered England.