Ammolite

The chemical composition of ammolite is variable, and aside from aragonite may include calcite, silica, pyrite, or other minerals. The shell itself may contain a number of trace elements, including: aluminium; barium; chromium; copper; iron; magnesium; manganese; strontium; titanium; and vanadium. Its crystallography is orthorhombic. Its hardness is 3.5–4.5, and its specific gravity is 2.60–2.85. The refractive index of Canadian material (as measured via sodium light, 589.3 nm) is as follows: α 1.522; β 1.672–1.673; γ 1.676–1.679; biaxial negative. Under ultraviolet light, ammolite may fluoresce a mustard yellow.

Significant deposits of gem-quality ammolite are only found in the Bearpaw Formation that extends from Alberta to Saskatchewan in Canada and south to Montana in the USA. However, small deposits have been found as far south as Central Utah which also contains gem-quality ammolite. The best grade of gem quality ammolite is along high energy river systems on the eastern slopes of the Rockies in southern Alberta. Most commercial mining operations have been conducted along the banks of the St. Mary River, in an area south of and between the town of Magrath and the city of Lethbridge. Roughly half of all ammolite deposits are contained within the Kainah (Kainaiwa) reserve, and its inhabitants play a major role in ammolite mining. Since its founding in 1979, Korite has operated primarily within the reservation. The company had an agreement with the Kainah (Blood) tribe, with Korite paying the tribe royalties based on how much land the company has mined. This agreement has expired. It prohibited the Blood Tribe members from surface mining along the banks and cliffs of the St. Mary River. There were about 35 licensed Blood surface miners in 2018. The surface miners are self employed mining in all kinds of weather. Some miners also restore the fossils they find or resell their finds to other fabricators.

Jewelry is a common use for the beautiful fossil material known as ammolite. Pendants and earrings are popular because they tend to catch the light, but it is not as common in rings and bracelets. It is often used with sterling silver, though gold is another option. The stone can also be mounted on a display base, turning it into an attractive piece of art.

Ammolite has been traditionally used in Native American rituals and ceremonies. Some tribes prized it as a healing stone, making it an important part of healing ceremonies. However, it was also used as a talisman during hunting. In ancient Egypt, the stone was associated with the major deity called Ammon and was considered a divine stone.

Ammolite is a protective stone that works with the Root chakra to bring balance and harmony. It is believed to attract prosperity and good fortune. When used during meditation, it is often said to enhance dreams and provide better recall and understanding of them. Along the way, one can enhance their spiritual and emotional growth for deeper and truer relationships.