Description
Discovered in the world-famous Inferior Oolite Formation of the Jurassic Coast, this fossil block contains a beautifully preserved Sonninia sowerbyi ammonite – a classic example of Middle Jurassic marine life. This particular piece comes from Burton Bradstock, Dorset, UK, an area celebrated for its rich ammonite-bearing strata.
Fossil & Geological Information:
- Species: Sonninia sowerbyi
- Family: Sonniniidae
- Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
- Order: Ammonitida
- Geological Stage: Bajocian (Middle Jurassic, approx. 170–168 million years ago)
- Formation: Inferior Oolite
- Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset, UK – part of the designated World Heritage Jurassic Coast
- Biozone: Found within the Sonninia sowerbyi Subzone of the Middle Bajocian ammonite succession
- Depositional Environment: Shallow, warm epicontinental seas with carbonate-rich sedimentation — ideal for fossilisation of marine organisms
- Morphological Features:
- Compressed, involute shell with slightly keeled venter
- Fine ribbing radiating across the flanks
- Distinctive ornamentation characteristic of the Sonniniidae family
- Notable: Sonninia sowerbyi is an important biozonal ammonite used in chronostratigraphic correlation of the Bajocian in European Jurassic successions
- Formal Identification: Initially described and attributed to the Sowerby lineage, 19th century palaeontological pioneers
Specimen Details:
- Discovery Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset, UK
- Discovered by: Alister and Alison (UKGE Team)
- Date of Discovery: 17 January 2025
- Preparation: Cleaned, prepped, and carefully stabilised by Alison
- Scale Reference: 1cm cube shown in photo (see images for full scale)
- Photograph: You will receive exactly the specimen pictured
- Authenticity: Includes Certificate of Authenticity – guaranteed 100% genuine fossil
About the Inferior Oolite:
The Inferior Oolite is a renowned Jurassic limestone unit in southern England. It is particularly rich in well-preserved ammonites, making it one of the most studied and collected marine fossil zones in the world. The fossils here provide valuable insights into Middle Jurassic palaeoenvironments and ammonite evolution.
This Sonninia sowerbyi fossil block is not only a scientifically notable specimen but also a striking addition for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of natural history.
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