Ammolite
The Seven-Color Prosperity Shell
Also known as: Korite
About the stone
Ammolite is an iridescent organic gemstone cut from the preserved shell layer of fossil ammonites—extinct marine animals that lived roughly 70–75 million years ago. Known to Blackfoot peoples long before scientific study, its deposits were recorded in 1908; jewelry makers began showcasing it in 1962, and the World Jewellery Confederation recognized it as a gemstone in 1981. Its principal commercial source is the Bearpaw Formation near Lethbridge and the St. Mary River in southern Alberta, Canada. In Blackfoot tradition, ammonite fossils known as iniskim, or “buffalo stones,” have sacred associations with attracting buffalo and sustaining the community. The composition of Ammolite is variable, and besides Aragonite may include Pyrite, Calcite or Silicon Dioxide. It may show fluorescence under UV light as a mustard yellow. The more colors it shows, the more iridescent it is and the larger it is without any cracking, the more expensive and rare the piece is.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Ammolite is a biogenic gem made of the iridescent aragonite (calcium carbonate, CaCO3) shell material of fossil ammonites from the Bearpaw Formation of Alberta, Canada. Its composition is variable and may also include pyrite, calcite or silicon dioxide.
- Hardness: 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Iridescent flashes of red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet; the more colors, the more prized.
- Specific gravity: 2.70 (varies with mineral content)
- Refractive index: 1.52 - 1.68
Metaphysical data
Ammolite, the seven-color shell of an ancient sea creature, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to attract prosperity, protect loving bonds and transform negativity into a loving spiral.
Protective and Spiraling Energy
- Ammolite is believed to funnel negativity through a loving spiral, dissipating it and protecting the wearer from it.
- It is said to enhance energy levels, desire, enjoyment and stamina, supporting a lively and joyful presence.
Emotional Healing
- The stone is thought to decrease depression and anhedonia, restoring the ability to feel enjoyment and lasting pleasure.
- It aids in protecting loving relationships and opening one up to loving and being loved.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Ammolite is associated with all chakras, and its rainbow of colors is often compared to the spectrum of the energy centers.
- Its red is said to enhance personal growth, its green to bring wisdom and its yellow to bring wealth.
Zodiac Associations
- The stone is linked to the zodiac sign of Cancer, a sign of home, protection and emotional depth.
- In numerology it vibrates to the number 7, a number of inner wisdom, reflection and spiritual seeking.
Spiritual Growth
- Sometimes called the Seven color prosperity stone, Ammolite is used in rituals for abundance and the flow of good fortune.
- As the shell of an ancient creature, it carries the spiral of time and invites reflection on deep cycles of life.
Physical Healing
- Ammolite is not a substitute for professional medical advice; tradition says it helps detoxify and cleanse both the body and the mind.
- These are symbolic associations, and it is best enjoyed as a beautiful focus for rest and renewal alongside proper care.
Care and handling
Ammolite is a relatively soft, thin shell material and is often set as a protective triplet or stabilized with resin. Keep it away from knocks, hard stones, heat, harsh chemicals, steam and ultrasonic cleaners. Wipe gently with a soft damp cloth and dry it, do not soak it, and avoid prolonged strong sunlight, which may harm its color and resin.
Individual experiences with Ammolite vary. Use it mindfully as a shimmering symbol of abundance and protection, with gentle care for the stone itself.