ROMANCE, HISTORY & LORE

Ammolite is one of the world’s rarest gemstones. Formed from the fossilized shells of ancient sea creatures called ammonites, this iridescent stone is the result of tectonic pressure, heat, and mineralization over 70 million years.

ORIGINS

Although ammonite fossils can be found around the world, the ammolite gemstone has only been found in one place: the Bearpaw Geological Formation in Alberta, Canada. The Blackfoot people of this region consider the gem a gift from the gods which possesses supernatural properties.

SELECTING A STONE

The quality of ammolite is based on the gemstone’s brilliance and diversity of color. The highest quality ammolite is very brilliant, with every spectral color present. Particularly prized are ammonite fossils covered with ammolite.

CARE

Natural ammolite is soft, with a hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Because ammolite is a relatively delicate gemstone, it should be removed before strenuous activities, as well as before sleeping. To clean ammolite jewelry, wipe with a soft, damp cloth.