A stunning example of a calcite ammonite fossil of the species Asteroceras obtusum from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Lyme Regis, Dorset UK.
The piece of limestone matrix measures 172 mm (6.78 inches) across and the fossil ammonite measures 45 mm (1.78 inches) across. The ammonite is well preserved and has been prepared out of the rock to reveal the whole shell. The ribs are very finely defined, and the colour is beautiful: deep yellow in the buoyancy chambers and light grey in the body chamber. The body chamber is unusually crushed, which would have happened as the ammonite lay on the seafloor before being fossilised.
A great example of a popular species and impressive in the flesh. These ammonites are not easy to find these days. The fossil weighs 920 grams and a cut flat base to allow it to stand freely on its own for display.
Fossils like this make great display pieces and add a real focal interest, not to mention being a great conversation piece!
Around 196 million years old (Sinemurian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.