Ammolite: Gorgeous gems from the past

# # # Ammolite (Ammolite): Organic Gems of the Primitive

Ammolite is considered one of the rarest organic gems in the world. It is of paleontological origin of ammonite (Ammonite), which is extinct. It has a primary structure composed of aragonite (Aragonite) ore, like that found in pearl shells.

* * Geology and genesis * *

Ammolite, found in Alberta, Canada, was formed by the embedding of ammonite about 70-75 million years ago; overlay with sediment stabilized the aragonite crystal structure, and eventually lined up a thin layer of plates.

* * Mineralogy and Phenomena in Physics * *

The iridescence visible in ammolite is caused by the insertion and diffraction of light as light passes through the crystal layer, with the thickness of the crystal layer affecting the reflected wave:

- * * Thick layer * * Red and green reflection

- * * Thin layer * * Reflecting blue, indigo and purple with high value

# # # Ammolite quality assessment standard

The quality assessment is determined by 4 main factors: color, brightness, color and pattern play, and jewel cleanliness.

- * * Color: * * Should display a variety of colors, especially rare ones.

- * * Brightness: * * Must have good and living reflection.

- * * Color Play: * * Color Must Move When Changing Views

- * * Cleanliness: * * The surface must be smooth and deep marks-free.

# # # Improving quality and care

Ammolite has a relatively low hardness, so it needs to be layered assembly for durability. It should be cleaned only with a mild soap-moistened soft cloth.

Let's collect ore!

By Bunchong Tientong

11 Mar 2026