Ammolite
A TRUE CANADIAN TREASURE.
History
Ammonites were prehistoric marine creatures. These creatures populated the planet for 400 million years and the fossils are found all over the world.
​
They were squid-like with a shell containing gas chambers which allowed them to move through the ocean. They were prey to larger sea creatures such as the Mosasaur.
​
The Ammonite fossils found in Alberta, Canada are unique in that it is only in this region of the world that the fossils are found with a brightly coloured shell remnant.
The preserved shell from this fossil is used to make the gemstone called Ammolite.
​
In 1981 the World Jewelry Confederation recognized Canadian Ammolite with gem status.
Geology
It is considered that the Canadian Ammolite fossils found were in existence up to
65-75 million years ago.
The Bearpaw Sea existed 150 million years ago and was located in Alberta,
Saskatchewan and south through the United States. The sea retreated during the
Ice age which led to the eventual extinction of the Ammonite in this region.
During the recession of the Bearpaw Sea, layers of sediment covered the
Ammonite which preserved these fossils. This area is present day Alberta prairie.
Recent History
It was the ancestors of the Blood Tribe Reserve who originally discovered Canadian Ammonite centuries ago.
It was officially discovered by the National Survey of Canada in 1908.
The people of the Blood Tribe belong to the Kainai Nation which is one of the nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy.
The reserve is the largest in Canada by land mass with an area of 1411 sq. kilometres. It is bordered by the Oldman River and the St. Mary’s River. It is on the banks of the St. Mary’s River where some of the best Ammolite is found.
Fossil Mining & Collection
Currently, Canadian Ammolite is sourced through permitted mining companies. In addition, the Indigenous people of the Blood Tribe hand collect from the reserve lands.
With the exception of the fossils found on the Indigenous lands, intact fossils are
the property of the Province of Alberta. Prior to sale of the fossil, a deposition must be acquired through The Royal Tyrrell Museum. The researchers at the
museum will assess whether they will hold it for research purposes.
​
Fossils that are collected by the Indigenous people are sold through permitted
individuals who are issued these permits by the Blood Tribe Reserve.
Sales & Exporting
Canadian Ammolite is sold primarily in Alberta, less commonly seen in the rest of Canada.
​
Due to its radiance in colour and shape, it is considered a Feng Shui masterpiece.
​
Most Ammolite that is currently produced is exported.