WARNING: Misleading Fossil Sale from Charmouth Fossils (charmouthfossils.com)
I’m sharing this to warn fellow fossil collectors about my recent experience with Charmouth Fossils, a UK-based seller operating via charmouthfossils.com.
What I Ordered:
I purchased what was advertised as a high-quality Oviraptor egg fossil, priced at £1,200. The listing claimed it had “about 90% shell coverage” and was from an “old collection,” supposedly vetted and genuine (see first image).
What I Received:
When it arrived:
The fossil had large areas of missing shell, nowhere near the 90% shown in the photos.
Several pieces had broken off during shipping.
The parcel wasn’t even marked “FRAGILE”, despite the obvious delicate nature of the item.
See second and third photos for comparison. The difference between the item received and the one advertised was blatant.
Attempted Resolution:
I reached out immediately, providing clear photographic evidence of the damage and discrepancy. Rather than acknowledge this or offer a fair solution, the seller:
Refused any upfront refund or secure transaction
Demanded I return the item at my own risk before they'd issue a refund
Suggested I travel in person from London to Dorset to return it (!)
Even after I proposed two very reasonable, buyer-protective options:
A partial refund, to avoid unnecessary risk and reflect the true condition
A full refund held in escrow or with a neutral party, to be released once I post the return
Their only reply was:
“I repeat please give an address so you can receive a full refund once the return of the item.”
“Or if you would like you can pop into the shop in person with the egg. That would be fine with us.”
No concern for the fact that the fossil was:
Misrepresented
Already partially broken in transit
Not shipped with basic care (no “Fragile” label)
Trust Broken:
The seller consistently deflected from the actual evidence. Their refusal to offer even the most basic buyer protections shows a complete lack of accountability.