Ammolite is a trade name given to a thin iridescent aragonite shell material that is found on two species of extinct ammonite fossils. Gem-quality Ammolite produces a spectacular display of iridescent color when it is observed in reflected light.

The colors of an individual stone can run the full range of the visible spectrum or be limited to just one or two colors. The color display can rival fine opal and labradorite in its intensity and beauty. Ammolite is a rare material.

All of the world’s commercial production comes from a small area along the St. Mary River in southwestern Alberta, Canada. There, two companies mine Ammolite from thin layers in the Bearpaw Formation where the ammonite fossils are found.

An official gemstone since 1981, ammolite comes from the fossilized shell of ancient marine mollusks, called ammonites, that lived in the Bearpaw Sea approximately 75 to 70 million years ago. A unique fossilization history has resulted in the rainbow of colours that adorn this beautiful gemstone.

Ammolite is known to be helpful during childbirth for both the mother and the baby. It can also enhance physical vitality and stamina, as well as stabilize the pulse and the blood pressure. This stone’s healing energies can also regulate the metabolism and lift depression. It’s known to work with detoxifying and purifying the body as well.

As with most gemstone jewelry, you want to minimize scratching and wear, so store each piece of fine jewelry separately in a soft cloth or padded container. Ammolite jewelry is best cleaned with warm, sudsy water and a tightly woven microfiber or other soft cloth.

Color Range:

Gray To Brown With Iridescent Colors

Major Sources:

United States, Canada.