A stunning example of an uncommon calcite ammonite fossil of the species Leptosphinctes sp. from a temporary inland site near Loders, close to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, UK.
The ammonite measures 183 mm (7.2 inches) across, which is a good size for this species. The ammonite is well preserved and has been prepared out of the rock to reveal the whole shell, which has good detail throughout. Much of the calcite shell is still present with some wear. The ribs are very finely defined, and the mottled colour is beautiful. This came from a temporary inland site that was being dug out for a building project, making it now inaccessible. The fossil weighs 1725 grams and is mostly matrix free. It does not stand by itself for display.
These ammonites are hard to find in this condition and most come from the coast rather than inland. They make wonderful display items and look great as interior design features.
Around 168 million years old (Bajocian, Middle Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.