2" Ammolite Placenticeras meeki Ammonite Freeform Specimen - Alberta, Canada

Placenticeras Meeki

Specimen size: ≈ 2" x 1.5" 

Ammolite, a rare biogenic gemstone, hails from Canada and is crafted from the fossilized Nacre of ancient ammonites, primarily composed of aragonite. Its opal-like iridescence caught the eye of the World Jewellery Confederation in 1981, cementing its status as an official gemstone. Commercial mining began the same year, and in 2022, Alberta designated it as its official gemstone.

Formed around 71 million years ago due to tectonic pressure and mineralization, ammolite's vibrant hues are almost exclusively extracted by Korite in the Bear Paw Formation. Discovered in 1906 by the Geological Survey of Canada, its rarity and cultural significance intrigued Korite's founder. Known as the "Buffalo Stone" among Indigenous Canadians and as the "Energy Stone," "Spirit Stone," or "7 Colour Prosperity Stone" by others, ammolite boasts a diverse spectrum of colors and patterns.

Its mesmerizing iridescence stems from light wave interference on aragonite layers, displaying a kaleidoscope of colors ranging from reds and greens to blues and violets. Patterns vary from solid colors to intricate designs resembling flames, watercolor paintings, or stained glass.