Ever see pendants made of an opal like iridescence, but not as bright as opal? It also looks like a opal colored fossil? That gemstone is called Ammolite.
Where is Ammolite Found?
Ammolite is found primarily along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains of North America. It is composed of fossilized shells of ammonites. Containing the same compounds of the microstructure of a shell. It is one of few biogenic gemstones; others include amber and pearl. In 1981 ammolite was given official gemstone status and commercial mining began.
A Gemstone You Want to Cherish
Made to Wear for Special Occasions
Ammolite is not durable for everyday jewelry wear with a MOHs hardness scale rating of 3.5. When it comes to gemstones this soft, they should be the last piece you put on, and the first you take off.
Iridescent Color
The iridescent color of the Ammolite is due to the microstructure of the aragonite. The iridescent color of ammolite comes from interference with the light that rebounds from stacked layers of thin platelets that make up the aragonite.
- The thicker layers of the gemstone produce more red and green color.
- Thinner layers produce more blue and violet color.
- Reds and greens are the most commonly seen colors, owing to the greater fragility of the finer layers responsible for the blues.
The Power Stone
Compared to most other gemstones, Ammolite has a rather limited history of use. It did not begin to enter into Western society until the 1970s.
- The Blackfeet tribe refers to Ammolite as iniskim, meaning “buffalo stone“. This gemstone is believed to aid in the buffalo hunt by drawing the buffalo closer.
- The Blackfeet also believe it possesses healing powers, and has always incorporated the gemstone into their medicine bundles and ceremonies.
In the late 1990s, practitioners of feng shui believe Ammolite has a power to enhance well-being and detoxify the body.
- Named the “Seven Color Prosperity Stone”, each color is believed by feng shui practitioners to influence the wearer in different and positive ways by enhancing growth, wisdom, and wealth, respectively.
Where are Ammolite Markets?
Japan is the largest market for Ammolite due to its use as an imitation of black opal, or its connection to feng shui. Secondary markets include Canada, where it is used both by artisans and fine jewelry producers who sell their jewelry design creations to tourists of Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.
At Joseph’s Jewelry, we carry numerous Ammolite gemstone jewelry pieces catering to every budget, and desired style. We are here to help residents in Stuart, Palm City, Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Jupiter and Port St. Lucie to find your perfect jewelry piece, complete a jewelry set, or make a custom jewelry design as unique as you are! We will also repair and restore your jewelry pieces and watches whether or not they were purchased through us. Come in anytime to check out our unique diamond rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings, and Citizen Eco Drive watches in stock for a celebration, last-minute gift, or spontaneous surprise.