Description
Available now is a magnificent 9″ Harpoceras fossil ammonite, found in the Beacon Limestone Formation near Ilminster, Somerset, United Kingdom. This specimen dates to the Lower Jurassic Period, specifically the Toarcian Stage, and showcases the elegant structure and detail for which Harpoceras is renowned.
Taxonomic Classification:
- Genus: Harpoceras
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
- Family: Hildoceratidae
- First described by Waagen in 1869, Harpoceras is a key ammonite genus in Toarcian biostratigraphy
Geological & Stratigraphic Context:
- Formation: Beacon Limestone
- Stage: Lower Toarcian (Early Jurassic)
- Biozone: Often associated with the Harpoceras serpentinum Zone
- Age: ~183 to 180 million years ago
- Locality: Ilminster, Somerset, UK
- Depositional Environment: Warm, shallow marine setting with low-energy carbonate sedimentation ideal for fossil preservation
Morphological Features:
- Involute coiling with narrow umbilicus
- Flattened whorls and a prominent, well-developed venter keel
- Fine sinuous ribbing, sweeping from the umbilical edge to the outer shell edge
- Shell structure indicative of nektonic (free-swimming) life habits
- May display preserved growth lines and intricate suture patterns
Scientific & Collector Significance:
- Harpoceras is a classic marker genus for Lower Jurassic stratigraphy and marine paleoecology
- The species provides important insights into ammonite evolution during the early phases of the Jurassic
- The Ilminster Beacon Limestone is one of the most iconic fossil beds in the UK, celebrated for both abundance and quality of ammonite preservation
This listing includes images of the actual specimen you will receive, with a 1cm square cube for scale reference. The fossil has been carefully selected and prepared to highlight its natural detail and beauty.
Authenticity Guaranteed: This is a 100% genuine fossil ammonite, and it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Perfect for fossil collectors, geology enthusiasts, educators, or as a striking natural history display piece.
Please see all photos for condition and full sizing details. A rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully preserved 9-inch Harpoceras ammonite from one of Britain’s most important Jurassic fossil sites.
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