Ammolite's Evolution: From Ammonite to Adornment

A dive into the unique beauty and intriguing cultural significance of one of Earth's rarest gemstones formed from the fossilized shells of ancient sea creatures.

By Mineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Lumachelle (2024-10-31) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

What is ammolite?

Ammolite is an opalized form of ammonite, an extinct animal related to squids and octopuses.

Composed mainly of aragonite, the same mineral found in pearls, this iridescent gemstone is prized for its rarity and beauty, making it a sought-after choice for jewelry and collectors.

Ammolite Three (2024-10-22) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Ammolite's origin

Ammolite originates from ammonite fossils that date back 71 million years.
Formed through a process of tectonic pressure, heat, and mineralization, each piece boasts a luminous color that is entirely unique.

Ammolite Two Background Removed (2024-10-22) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Just how rare is ammolite?

The rare and iridescent gemstone is found exclusively in the Bearpaw Formation of Alberta, Canada.

The distinctive geographic conditions of the formation created an environment that preserved ancient life and minerals, making ammolite a treasure found nowhere else on Earth.

Green Ammolite Doublet (2024-10-22) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Unique beauty of ammolite

What truly sets Ammolite apart is its unparalleled individuality. Each piece boasts distinct colors, patterns, and personalities, ensuring that no two are ever the same.
This Ammolite doublet displays cobblestone striations, natural inclusions that create remarkable and beautiful patterns

Lumachelle (2) (2024-12-10) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Color grading matrix

Ammolite is classified into four grades based on its brilliance, color variety, and clarity:
AAA – 3 to 5 vibrant colors with no visible matrix lines.
AA – Features at least 3 brilliant colors.
A – Shows two or more colors with good brilliance.
Standard –One or more vibrant colors

Ammolite Three (2024-10-22) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

The color of ammolite

The iridescence and vibrancy are determined by thin crystallized layers and the thickness of layers. Thinner layers produce blues and purples, and thicker layers red and greens, resulting from light diffraction within the layers. Thinner layers are more subject to fractures and therefore more valuable

Red and Orange Ammolite Doublets (2024-12-10) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Seven Color Prosperity Stone

Ammonite's gemstone version, Ammolite, is named the 'Seven Color Prosperity Stone' by Feng Shui masters. Each color in the stone provides a different meaning and energy for the wearer and has an associated Chakra, influencing a particular physical, emotional, or mental state.

Lumachelle (2024-10-31) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Significance in ancient cultures

Ammolite has held profound cultural significance across civilizations, symbolizing divine connection and spiritual power.

They are prized by ancient Egyptians and Romans as symbols of deities. Ancient Ethiopians believed it to be sacred, aiding in meditation and prophesizing.

Six Ammolite Doublets (2024-10-20) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

Ammolite in modern-day cultures

In India, the fossils are found in Gandaki River and linked to the god Vishnu and used in ceremonies.
The Bearpaw Formation where ammolite is mined is on Blackfoot Tribal Land. The tribe regards Ammolite (or Inkism in the Blackfoot language) as a sacred symbol used in ceremonies related to bison hunting.

Ammolite Three Background Removed (2024-10-22) by MGMH - Rachel GnieskiMineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University

The timeless beauty and significance of ammolite

Ammolite is a rare gemstone prized for its stunning iridescence and cultural significance.

Revered across ancient and modern cultures, it is valued for its healing properties, unique beauty, and deep spiritual connections, making it a gemstone of both earthly and spiritual importance.

Credits: Story

Story created by Isabella Checco and photos taken by Rachel Gnieski

https://ammolite-museum.myshopify.com/pges/ammolite
https://ammolitecanada.ca/blog/why-is-ammolite-so-rare
https://www.gemselect.com/gem-info/ammolite/ammolite-gemstone-information-and-education.php
https://mysticcrystalimports.com/pages/ammolite-properties?srsltid=AfmBOoo8Ovo6zzLo-KljtGYOf14UjfBi0fVxnCKe4PZqflQ00x1kvkCc
Ammonite vs Ammolite - How To Tell Them Apart (With Photos)
https://www.dwsjewellery.com/blog/ammolite/

Credits: All media

The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.

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