Ammonite is a fossil when it is found.  Millions of years ago (Mesozoic Era), when much of Alberta was at the bottom of a shallow sea, ammonites were plentiful.  Today the discovery of the fossilized Ammonites is difficult and rare.  Each find must first be authorized by the Tyrell Museum before the Ammonite can be released to be used for jewelry. With approval the fossil is opened to display the semi-precious stone inside, called ammolite.  This stone is then turned into jewelry that is brilliant and multi-colored.  Just the right combination of heat and pressure created this geological phenomenon. It has been buried for the past 71 million years

 

 

About ammonites
Ammonites were hard-shelled squid-like marine animals, abundant in the oceans during the Mesozoic Era, measuring 62 centimeters (2 feet) or more in diameter.  Ammonite fossils takes more than 2 months to clean and repair after being found or excavated from a quarry leased from the Blood Nation in Southern Alberta.

Asian Beliefs
The multiple layers of colour inside the stone are what creates the sparkling radiance. By examining the stone, one will see the seeds of seven distinct colours: ruby crimson, fiery orange, amber yellow, emerald green, jade, azure and mauve. Hence, some feng shui masters have named it the “Seven Colour Prosperity Stone”. Each colour represents a different meaning. For example, crimson stimulates growth and energy; orange generates creativity, and increased libido; green improves wisdom, intellect and promotes entreprenerialship; yellow improves wealth; and blue promotes peace and health.

Be sure to see the stunning and large Ammonite
fossil at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

The best places to shop in both Jasper and Banff for jewelry made from Ammonite are the main streets or within a block or two off the main streets.  Banff Avenue and Bear Street are popular, as are the side streets of Wolf, Caribou and Bear.  In Jasper shop along Connaught Drive and the adjacent avenue for great selection