Mantelliceras mantelli Fossil Ammonite Isle of Wight Cretaceous Genuine Specimen Certificate Authenticity Rare UK Collector Display
£ 60.00
Mantelliceras mantelli Fossil Ammonite – Isle of Wight Cretaceous DiscoveryThis impressive fossil ammonite, identified as Mantelliceras mantelli,
originates from the Glauconitic Marl of Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight, one of the most significant Cretaceous fossil localities in the United Kingdom. Dating to the Lower Cenomanian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 100 million years ago, this specimen represents a classic and highly sought-after ammonite species.Discovered by our experienced team members, Alister and Alison, this fossil has been expertly cleaned, carefully prepared, and professionally treated by Alison to reveal its natural structure and detail. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, making it a unique addition to any collection.Geological Context and Depositional EnvironmentThe Glauconitic Marl Formation is a distinctive marine deposit formed during a period of rising sea levels, when much of southern England was submerged beneath a warm, shallow sea. The presence of glauconite, a green mineral formed in marine conditions, indicates slow sedimentation in a stable offshore environment.During the Cenomanian, this region supported a rich marine ecosystem teeming with cephalopods, bivalves, and other marine organisms. The fine-grained sediments and low-energy conditions allowed for exceptional fossil preservation, capturing intricate details of ammonite shells such as Mantelliceras mantelli.Taxonomy and ClassificationMantelliceras mantelli belongs to the order Ammonitida and the family Acanthoceratidae, a group of robust ammonites known for their distinctive ornamentation and evolutionary importance during the Cretaceous. The genus Mantelliceras is particularly significant as an index fossil, commonly used to identify Lower Cenomanian strata.This species was first described in the early 19th century and named in honour of the pioneering geologist Gideon Mantell, whose work greatly advanced the study of British fossils.Morphology and Shell FeaturesThis specimen displays the classic characteristics of Mantelliceras mantelli, including a strongly ribbed, planispiral shell with pronounced ornamentation. The ribs typically extend from the inner whorls across the flanks, often developing into tubercles or nodes along the outer edges, giving the ammonite a bold and sculptural appearance.The whorl section is generally robust, and the ribbing pattern provides both structural strength and hydrodynamic efficiency. Fine growth lines may also be visible, reflecting the incremental development of the shell throughout the organism’s life.The natural mineralisation enhances the fossil’s visual contrast, highlighting the ribbing and structural details that make this species so distinctive and desirable.Preservation and PreparationAlison’s careful preparation has revealed the ammonite’s features while preserving the surrounding matrix where appropriate. The fossil retains its authentic texture and colouration, with a balance between exposed shell and natural rock that enhances its display appeal.Full sizing details are available in the photographs provided, allowing you to appreciate the scale and proportions of this specimen.Authenticity and ProvenanceThis fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card, ensuring confidence in its origin and identification. Each piece we offer is responsibly sourced and handled directly by our team, providing complete traceability from discovery through to final presentation.Collector Appeal and Display ValueAmmonites from the Isle of Wight are highly prized for their quality, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. Mantelliceras mantelli is particularly sought after due to its bold ornamentation and importance as a Cenomanian index fossil.This specimen is an उत्कृष्ट addition to any fossil collection, offering both scientific value and striking visual presence. Ideal for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or British geological specimens, it makes a captivating display piece for any cabinet, study, or gallery setting.
originates from the Glauconitic Marl of Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight, one of the most significant Cretaceous fossil localities in the United Kingdom. Dating to the Lower Cenomanian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 100 million years ago, this specimen represents a classic and highly sought-after ammonite species.Discovered by our experienced team members, Alister and Alison, this fossil has been expertly cleaned, carefully prepared, and professionally treated by Alison to reveal its natural structure and detail. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, making it a unique addition to any collection.Geological Context and Depositional EnvironmentThe Glauconitic Marl Formation is a distinctive marine deposit formed during a period of rising sea levels, when much of southern England was submerged beneath a warm, shallow sea. The presence of glauconite, a green mineral formed in marine conditions, indicates slow sedimentation in a stable offshore environment.During the Cenomanian, this region supported a rich marine ecosystem teeming with cephalopods, bivalves, and other marine organisms. The fine-grained sediments and low-energy conditions allowed for exceptional fossil preservation, capturing intricate details of ammonite shells such as Mantelliceras mantelli.Taxonomy and ClassificationMantelliceras mantelli belongs to the order Ammonitida and the family Acanthoceratidae, a group of robust ammonites known for their distinctive ornamentation and evolutionary importance during the Cretaceous. The genus Mantelliceras is particularly significant as an index fossil, commonly used to identify Lower Cenomanian strata.This species was first described in the early 19th century and named in honour of the pioneering geologist Gideon Mantell, whose work greatly advanced the study of British fossils.Morphology and Shell FeaturesThis specimen displays the classic characteristics of Mantelliceras mantelli, including a strongly ribbed, planispiral shell with pronounced ornamentation. The ribs typically extend from the inner whorls across the flanks, often developing into tubercles or nodes along the outer edges, giving the ammonite a bold and sculptural appearance.The whorl section is generally robust, and the ribbing pattern provides both structural strength and hydrodynamic efficiency. Fine growth lines may also be visible, reflecting the incremental development of the shell throughout the organism’s life.The natural mineralisation enhances the fossil’s visual contrast, highlighting the ribbing and structural details that make this species so distinctive and desirable.Preservation and PreparationAlison’s careful preparation has revealed the ammonite’s features while preserving the surrounding matrix where appropriate. The fossil retains its authentic texture and colouration, with a balance between exposed shell and natural rock that enhances its display appeal.Full sizing details are available in the photographs provided, allowing you to appreciate the scale and proportions of this specimen.Authenticity and ProvenanceThis fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card, ensuring confidence in its origin and identification. Each piece we offer is responsibly sourced and handled directly by our team, providing complete traceability from discovery through to final presentation.Collector Appeal and Display ValueAmmonites from the Isle of Wight are highly prized for their quality, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. Mantelliceras mantelli is particularly sought after due to its bold ornamentation and importance as a Cenomanian index fossil.This specimen is an उत्कृष्ट addition to any fossil collection, offering both scientific value and striking visual presence. Ideal for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or British geological specimens, it makes a captivating display piece for any cabinet, study, or gallery setting.
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