A stunning example of a highly pyritised multi-ammonite fossil containing the species Crucilobiceras densinodulum from the world famous Jurassic Coast beach of Charmouth, Dorset UK.
The fossil measures 36 mm (1.4 inches) across with matrix which is a good size for this type of fossil. The pyrite matrix contains lots of small ammonite shells which all accumulated together on the seafloor in the Early Jurassic. The density of shells in this one is particularly high for this fossil type. The ammonites are very well preserved with great detail and the whole piece has a wonderful pyritic colour and shine. These beautiful fossils are getting much harder to find. A really unique piece.
These multi-ammonite assemblages (or 'death beds') occur when lots of shells came together on the seafloor before being fossilised together, often collecting around an obstacle in the mud like a piece of wood or larger shell. They are a beautiful snapshot of life (and death) on the seafloor almost 200 million years ago.
Around 196 million years old, this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.