Have you ever come across the unique gemstone known as ammolite? This fascinating and strangely beautiful mineral has captured our admiration since its discovery in the 1930s, becoming one of nature’s most enigmatic creations.
Boasting a mesmerizing array of shimmering rainbow colors – from bright blues to deep reds – this extraordinary stone is said to unlock powerful meaning, uses, and benefits that have yet to be fully explored.
Here we will uncover these secrets; learn what makes ammolite so special and how we can embrace its captivating qualities for ourselves!
What Is Ammolite?
Ammolite, an incredible gemstone found along the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, is truly a natural wonder. Its gem quality comes from the fossilized shells of ammonites that lived millions of years ago.
The shells consist of aragonite, the same mineral found in the nacre of pearls. This means that ammolite and other treasures like amber belong to the biogenic gemstone family. But what sets ammolite apart is that it was granted official stone status by the World Jewelry Confederation in 1981, recognizing its unique beauty and rarity.
This organic opal stone is truly a unique gem with an intriguing history that beguiles gemstone enthusiasts worldwide. With a distinctive iridescence, ammolite is a fossilized ammonite shell.
Ammolite Stone Meaning
Ammolite gemstone is no ordinary gemstone; it carries a rich history and a world of meanings. The stone stands for prosperity, knowledge, and grounding, among other things. It’s easy to see why ancient cultures from all over the world considered ammolite sacred. In fact, the stone has been traced back to North American tribes who used the gem for healing and guidance during hunting.
But there’s more to ammolite than just that. In many cultures, it was also closely linked to deities, particularly those with horns. It’s fascinating to think that a single gemstone could hold such significance in different parts of the world. Indeed, the story of ammolite is one that speaks of the diversity and beauty of human belief systems.
The world is full of fascinating gemstones with unique properties and enchanting allure. Among them is ammolite, a stone that has captivated minds for centuries. As Pliny the Elder wrote, the ammolite was known as the “hammonis cornu”, symbolizing Amun’s horns, the Egyptian god of creation.
It is thought that scientists did not first characterize iridescent ammonite shells until the early 1900s, and the first gemstones made of this gem material were not discovered until the 1960s. For hundreds of years, the Blackfoot people have been aware of colorful ammonite fossils. They used the substance as a talisman and dubbed it “Iniskim,” which means “buffalo stone.” In 1908, researchers from the Canadian Geological Survey wrote on the iridescent ammonite shells.
Ammolite received widespread recognition thanks to the Colored Stones Commission, and becoming the “Official Gemstone of Alberta” led to tremendous local popularity. Ammolite mines are now being run by two businesses in the Bearpaw Formation.
Little quantities of yield gem quality Ammolite have been discovered in various locations, but only one region is known to produce gem quality Ammolite in commercial quantities, and that is in southwest Alberta along the St. Mary River.
Uses Of Ammolite Stones
Ammolite gemstone is a rare and valuable gemstone that is primarily found in the ammonite fossils of ammonites, which are extinct marine mollusks. Here are some of the most common uses of ammolite stones:
Ammolite Jewelry
Ammolite is highly prized as a gemstone due to its vibrant colors and unique iridescence. It is often cut and polished into cabochons or faceted stones and used in clean ammolite jewelry such as rings, pendants, and earrings.
Collectibles
Due to its rarity and unique beauty, ammolite is a popular choice among collectors of gemstones and iridescent ammonite fossils or ammonite shell. High-quality ammolite specimens, especially those with rare or unusual colors, can be quite valuable.
Decorative Objects
Ammolite is sometimes used in decorative objects such as sculptures and art pieces. Its vibrant colors and unique patterns make it a striking addition to any interior design.
Scientific Research
Ammolite is of great interest to paleontologists and other scientists due to its connection to the ancient world. The study of ammolite can provide valuable insights into the history of life on Earth and the evolution of various species.
Overall, ammolite is a unique and versatile gemstone that has a wide range of uses and applications. Its natural beauty and rarity make it a highly sought-after and valuable addition to any collection.
Physical Properties Of Ammolite Gemstones
Ammolite is a gemstone that is formed from the fossilized remains of ammonites, which were ancient marine mollusks that lived millions of years ago. Here are some of the physical properties of ammolite:
Hardness
Ammolite has a hardness of around 4.5-5.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively soft compared to other gemstones.
Color
Ammolite is known for its vibrant and iridescent colors, which are caused by the way that light interacts with the layers of minerals in the fossilized shell. The most common colors of ammolite include green, red, yellow, and blue, but it can also have a wide range of other colors and patterns.
Transparency
Ammolite is usually opaque, meaning that it does not allow light to pass through it.
Luster
Ammolite has a vitreous to resinous luster, which gives it a shiny and reflective appearance.
Cleavage
Ammolite has a distinct cleavage, which means that it can easily split along certain planes.
Density
The density of ammolite varies depending on the specific composition of the fossil, but it is generally around 2.6-2.9 g/cm³.
Overall, ammolite is a unique and beautiful gemstone that is highly prized for its vibrant colors and distinctive patterns. Its physical properties make it a challenging gem material to work with, but also give it a special charm and appeal that collectors and enthusiasts highly value.
The Different Types of Ammolite Stone
Ammolite is a precious gemstone found in Alberta, Canada. It is composed of aragonite, a type of calcium carbonate, which gives the stone its unique shape and color. Ammolite can be found in many different shapes and sizes, and each individual stone may have its own unique hue, pattern or iridescence.
There are three main types of ammolite gem: Classic Rainbow, Jewel Grade and Royal Grade. Each type has its own set of characteristics that make it distinct from the others. Classic Rainbow is typically the most affordable of the three grades but still displays vibrant colors ranging from blues and greens to purples and yellows.
Its color palette also tends to exhibit more earthy hues than the other two varieties. Jewel Grade ammolite has an intense range of rainbow colors including oranges, reds and golds; this grade also generally has higher levels of transparency when compared to other varieties. Royal Grade ammolite has an especially high luster due to its higher levels of opalescence; it’s also one of the rarest types with colors spanning all seven spectral colors.
Healing Properties Of Ammolite Gemstones
Some believe ammolite to have healing properties and metaphysical properties. However, it’s important to note that these beliefs are not scientifically proven, and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Here are some of the healing properties that ammolite is thought to possess:
Energizing And Balancing
Ammolite is a gemstone that is formed from the fossilized shells of extinct marine mollusks known as ammonites. It is believed by some to have energetic properties that can positively affect the body’s energy systems and help balance and harmonize the chakras.
Chakras are believed to be energy centers in the body that correspond to different aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The body has seven major chakras, each located in a specific area and associated with a different color, element, and quality.
Enhancing Creativity And Intuition
Ammolite is often associated with enhancing creativity and intuition. It is believed to stimulate the imagination and increase one’s ability to come up with creative ideas and solutions. It is also thought to help individuals tap into their inner wisdom and intuition, allowing them to make more intuitive and insightful decisions.
Artists, writers, and other creative individuals often use Ammolite to help inspire their work and enhance their creative abilities. It is said to help individuals connect with their inner selves and tap into their deepest sources of creativity and inspiration.
Boosting Vitality And Stamina
Ammolite is said to help increase physical energy and stamina, and to promote overall vitality and well-being. It is believed to be a powerful stone for overall health and healing.
Ammolite can be used in many different ways, from jewelry to décor. Its vibrant colors and unique patterns make it an eye-catching addition to any collection. Whether used as a healing aid or admired for its beauty, ammolite will surely add elegance and distinction to any collection.
Reducing Stress And Anxiety
Ammolite is often associated with enhancing creativity and intuition. It is believed to stimulate the imagination and increase one’s ability to develop creative ideas and solutions. It is also thought to help individuals tap into their inner wisdom and intuition, allowing them to make more intuitive and insightful decisions.
Artists, writers, and other creative individuals often use Ammolite to help inspire their work and enhance their creative abilities. It is said to help individuals connect with their inner selves and tap into their deepest sources of creativity and inspiration.
Improving Brain Function
Ammolite is thought to affect brain function and cognitive performance positively. It is said to help improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
Overall, ammolite is believed by some to be a powerful healing stone that can have a wide range of positive effects on the mind, body, and spirit. Whether or not you believe in the healing properties of ammolite, it is still a unique and beautiful gemstone that can be enjoyed for its natural beauty and aesthetic appeal.
FAQ’s
What is good gem quality ammolite?
Good gem quality ammolite is typically characterized by bright and vibrant colors, with well-defined and distinct patterns. The gemstone should have a high degree of iridescence, with a range of colors that shimmer and change depending on the angle of light and the movement of the stone.
How is ammolite formed?
Ammolite is formed over millions of years due to geological processes such as shifting tectonic plates or earthquakes that break up the original layers containing the aragonite fossils. Over time, these layers are further compressed by additional sediment and pressure to form the beautiful ammolite stones we see today.
What healing properties does ammolite have?
Ammolite has long been believed to possess healing properties that are both emotional and physical. It can help to promote inner peace, relaxation and emotional stability while also helping to relieve tension and stress on a physical level by assisting with issues related to the circulatory system, digestive system, and immune system while also boosting energy levels and increasing mental clarity.
How can I care for my ammolite gemstone?
Ammolite is delicate, so taking certain precautions when caring for your stone is important. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or immersing it in water as this could cause discoloration or dullness over time; it’s best stored away in a soft cloth-lined box or jewelry pouch out of direct light when not being worn or used in order to ensure its longevity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering the brilliance of ammolite is an exciting journey to embark on. From unlocking its meaning to exploring its uses and benefits, it’s clear that ammolite holds a special and unique spot in history and in each of our lives.
You don’t need to be an expert gemologist or collector to find beauty in gem ammolite shell – anyone can appreciate this gem’s wondrous range of colors. Whether you choose to wear it or simply keep it as a wonderful reminder of nature’s radiance, let your spirit soar with amazement at the beauty found within these special stones.
So why not take a chance to experience the truly remarkable power of these pieces for yourself? See what joy and wonder Ammolite has in store for you today!
