What is Ammolite?

Originally published: June 4, 2020
Last updated: January 30, 2026

Ammolite is a rare, iridescent gemstone formed from fossilized ammonite shells found almost exclusively in Southern Alberta, Canada. Known for its vivid rainbow colors and organic origin, ammolite is one of the few gemstones created from ancient marine life dating back over 70 million years.

Highly prized for its beauty, rarity, and cultural significance, ammolite is used in fine jewelry, display stones, and collector pieces. Its value is influenced by color, pattern, and preservation—making top-quality Canadian ammolite especially sought after worldwide.

Sterling silver ammolite triplet pendant showcasing vivid color play.

Where Does Ammolite Come From?

Ammolite is found primarily in Southern Alberta, Canada, where fossil-rich deposits contain ancient ammonite shells that have mineralized over time. Because commercially mined gem-quality ammolite is largely limited to this region, Canadian ammolite is considered especially rare.

How Ammolite Is Formed (From Ammonite Fossils)

Millions of years ago, ammonites lived in ancient oceans and later became fossilized after extinction. Over countless millennia, parts of these shells transformed into the iridescent material we now call ammolite.

Ammonites suffered the same fate as the dinosaurs and became extinct about 66 million years ago. Scientists believe a massive asteroid impact and rapid climate changes likely contributed to their demise.

Genuine Canadian ammonite fossil specimen (example).

As countless millennia passed, two species of ammonites—Placenticeras meeki and P. intercalare—slowly turned into stunningly colored fossils known as ammolite.

Ammolite Colors and Patterns

Most ammolite shows green and red color play. Blue and violet ammolite are more unusual, and typically more valuable.

Ammolite is often described as either fractured or sheet. Fractured ammolite resembles stained glass; sheet ammolite is a more continuous piece where the colors flow without major breaks.

Collectors also use descriptive pattern names such as:

• Dragon skin (scale-like pattern)
• Cobblestone (stone-road pattern)
• Moonglow (soft glow with fewer fractures)
• Paint brush (looks like strokes of paint)

Ammolite Meaning and Cultural Significance

The brilliant colors of ammolite have long fascinated collectors and jewelry lovers. Some Indigenous peoples valued ammolite for its beauty and symbolism, and it has been associated with good fortune in various cultural traditions.

In recent years, demand in parts of Asia (including Hong Kong and Japan) has contributed to increased interest in ammolite. In Feng Shui culture, colorful gemstones are sometimes believed to bring good luck and positive energy.

Note: Cultural beliefs vary. If you’re buying ammolite for symbolism, it’s still worth learning how quality and craftsmanship affect long-term value.

Ammolite Uses in Jewelry and Display Pieces

Ammolite is often fashioned into pendants, brooches, and earrings, and sometimes sold as display stones or collectible art pieces.

Polished ammolite display stone with strong spectrum color play from red to yellow and green.

Polished ammolite stone (example).

Doublet vs Triplet: How Ammolite Is Made Stable

Because ammolite’s iridescent layer can be thin, it’s commonly assembled into a doublet or triplet to protect and stabilize it.

• Doublet: Ammolite is backed with a material such as shale, black onyx, or glass.
• Triplet: A protective top layer (often synthetic spinel or quartz) is added above the ammolite.

Sheet ammolite is also sometimes injected with a polymer to stabilize its surface.

18k gold ammolite pendant (triplet) example.

Is Ammolite Valuable?

Ammolite can be valuable, especially when it shows strong, vivid color play with desirable patterns and good durability. In general, the most valuable pieces tend to have:

• Bright, saturated colors (especially multi-color “full spectrum”)
• Rare hues (blue and violet are less common)
• Attractive patterns (e.g., dragon skin, paint brush)
• Good polish and craftsmanship
• Stable construction (often as a triplet for jewelry use)

How to Care for Ammolite Jewelry

Ammolite is not a hard gemstone (around 3.5 on the Mohs scale), which means it can scratch more easily than many popular jewelry stones. Heat and chemicals—like acids, perfume, and hairspray—can also damage it.

To clean ammolite, use only a damp, soft, non-abrasive cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, and harsh chemicals.

FAQ

What is ammolite?

Ammolite is a rare gemstone made from fossilized ammonite shells, known for its iridescent rainbow colors. Most gem-quality ammolite comes from Southern Alberta, Canada.

What is ammolite used for?

Ammolite is used in jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and brooches, and it’s also sold as polished display stones and collector pieces.

Why is ammolite valuable?

Ammolite’s value depends on rarity, color intensity, pattern, polish, and durability. Pieces with strong multi-color play—especially rare blue or violet—tend to be more valuable.

Where does ammolite come from?

Most ammolite comes from Southern Alberta, Canada, where ancient ammonite fossils formed the iridescent material over millions of years.

Part of this article was adapted from educational gemology resources (e.g., GIA.edu).