Mantelliceras mantelli Fossil Ammonite Dorset Cretaceous UK Genuine Specimen Certificate Authenticity Cenomanian Collector Display
£ 18.00
Mantelliceras mantelli Fossil Ammonite – Cenomanian Cretaceous of DorsetThis striking fossil ammonite, identified as Mantelliceras mantelli, originates
from the Cenomanian deposits of Ringstead Bay, Dorset, United Kingdom. Dating to approximately 100 million years ago during the early Late Cretaceous, this specimen represents one of the most iconic and recognisable ammonites from British geology, prized for both its bold ornamentation and scientific importance.Discovered by our experienced team members, Alister and Alison, this fossil has been carefully cleaned, expertly prepared, and treated by Alison to enhance its natural detail while preserving its structural integrity. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, making it a unique and highly collectible addition to any fossil collection.Geological Context and StratigraphyRingstead Bay forms part of the famous Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, where Cretaceous strata are exposed along the Dorset coastline. The Cenomanian stage marks a period of high global sea levels, during which much of southern England was submerged beneath a warm, shallow epicontinental sea.The sediments from this interval, including marls and chalky deposits, were laid down in relatively calm marine conditions. These environments supported a diverse ecosystem of ammonites, bivalves, and other marine organisms. Mantelliceras mantelli is a well-known index fossil for the Lower Cenomanian, making it an important marker for dating and correlating rock layers.Taxonomy and Scientific SignificanceMantelliceras mantelli belongs to the order Ammonitida and the family Acanthoceratidae, a group of robust ammonites known for their strong ribbing and distinctive tuberculation. The genus Mantelliceras is named in honour of Gideon Mantell, one of the pioneers of British palaeontology.These ammonites were active marine predators, using their chambered shells to regulate buoyancy. Their widespread distribution and rapid evolution make them invaluable for understanding Cretaceous marine environments and stratigraphy.Morphology and Shell FeaturesThis specimen displays the classic characteristics of Mantelliceras mantelli, including a robust, planispiral shell with prominent ribbing extending across the flanks. The ribs often develop into pronounced tubercles along the outer whorl, giving the ammonite a bold, sculptural appearance.The whorls are well defined, and the overall shell structure is symmetrical and balanced. The combination of strong ribbing and nodular ornamentation reflects both structural strength and hydrodynamic adaptation.Subtle growth lines may also be visible, providing insight into the incremental development of the shell throughout the organism’s life. Natural mineralisation enhances the fossil’s contrast, highlighting its detailed features and making it highly suitable for display.Depositional Environment and PreservationDuring the Cenomanian, the Dorset region was covered by a warm, shallow sea where fine sediments accumulated over time. These stable conditions allowed for the preservation of marine organisms, including ammonites, often with remarkable clarity.Alison’s careful preparation has revealed the ammonite’s features while maintaining elements of the natural matrix where appropriate. This approach preserves both the fossil’s authenticity and its geological context, resulting in a visually striking and scientifically valuable specimen.Full sizing details can be confirmed via the accompanying photographs.Authenticity and ProvenanceThis fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card, ensuring complete confidence in its origin and identification. Every specimen is responsibly sourced and handled directly by our team, providing full traceability from discovery through to preparation.Collector Appeal and Display ValueAmmonites from the Dorset coast are highly sought after for their historical significance and excellent preservation. Mantelliceras mantelli is particularly desirable due to its bold ornamentation and importance as a Cenomanian index fossil.This specimen is ideal for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or British geological material. Whether displayed in a cabinet, study, or gallery, it offers both scientific depth and strong visual impact, serving as a tangible connection to the ancient seas that once covered southern England.
from the Cenomanian deposits of Ringstead Bay, Dorset, United Kingdom. Dating to approximately 100 million years ago during the early Late Cretaceous, this specimen represents one of the most iconic and recognisable ammonites from British geology, prized for both its bold ornamentation and scientific importance.Discovered by our experienced team members, Alister and Alison, this fossil has been carefully cleaned, expertly prepared, and treated by Alison to enhance its natural detail while preserving its structural integrity. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, making it a unique and highly collectible addition to any fossil collection.Geological Context and StratigraphyRingstead Bay forms part of the famous Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, where Cretaceous strata are exposed along the Dorset coastline. The Cenomanian stage marks a period of high global sea levels, during which much of southern England was submerged beneath a warm, shallow epicontinental sea.The sediments from this interval, including marls and chalky deposits, were laid down in relatively calm marine conditions. These environments supported a diverse ecosystem of ammonites, bivalves, and other marine organisms. Mantelliceras mantelli is a well-known index fossil for the Lower Cenomanian, making it an important marker for dating and correlating rock layers.Taxonomy and Scientific SignificanceMantelliceras mantelli belongs to the order Ammonitida and the family Acanthoceratidae, a group of robust ammonites known for their strong ribbing and distinctive tuberculation. The genus Mantelliceras is named in honour of Gideon Mantell, one of the pioneers of British palaeontology.These ammonites were active marine predators, using their chambered shells to regulate buoyancy. Their widespread distribution and rapid evolution make them invaluable for understanding Cretaceous marine environments and stratigraphy.Morphology and Shell FeaturesThis specimen displays the classic characteristics of Mantelliceras mantelli, including a robust, planispiral shell with prominent ribbing extending across the flanks. The ribs often develop into pronounced tubercles along the outer whorl, giving the ammonite a bold, sculptural appearance.The whorls are well defined, and the overall shell structure is symmetrical and balanced. The combination of strong ribbing and nodular ornamentation reflects both structural strength and hydrodynamic adaptation.Subtle growth lines may also be visible, providing insight into the incremental development of the shell throughout the organism’s life. Natural mineralisation enhances the fossil’s contrast, highlighting its detailed features and making it highly suitable for display.Depositional Environment and PreservationDuring the Cenomanian, the Dorset region was covered by a warm, shallow sea where fine sediments accumulated over time. These stable conditions allowed for the preservation of marine organisms, including ammonites, often with remarkable clarity.Alison’s careful preparation has revealed the ammonite’s features while maintaining elements of the natural matrix where appropriate. This approach preserves both the fossil’s authenticity and its geological context, resulting in a visually striking and scientifically valuable specimen.Full sizing details can be confirmed via the accompanying photographs.Authenticity and ProvenanceThis fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee card, ensuring complete confidence in its origin and identification. Every specimen is responsibly sourced and handled directly by our team, providing full traceability from discovery through to preparation.Collector Appeal and Display ValueAmmonites from the Dorset coast are highly sought after for their historical significance and excellent preservation. Mantelliceras mantelli is particularly desirable due to its bold ornamentation and importance as a Cenomanian index fossil.This specimen is ideal for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or British geological material. Whether displayed in a cabinet, study, or gallery, it offers both scientific depth and strong visual impact, serving as a tangible connection to the ancient seas that once covered southern England.
