One of the most coveted gemstones found on Earth, Ammolite, is an iridescent aragonite obtained from the fossilized shell of ammonites – marine creatures that lived millions of years ago and were wiped out of existence along with the dinosaurs.
Ammolite jewelry has quickly gained popularity due to its mystical properties and rarity. Rare because high-grade, gemstone-quality Ammolite can only be found in Alberta, Canada. The highest quality Ammolite can display all seven colors of the rainbow, along with unique patterns that paint an extraordinary picture.
While Ammolite has been used as an accessory for centuries, a gemstone as unique as this has many counterfeit or low-quality pieces floating about in the market. Here is a helpful guide to ensure you always end up with high-quality, authentic Ammolite jewelry.
Color
The gemstone’s color and iridescence are determined by the thickness and orientation of the layers of the shell that form the Ammolite. Ammolite is known for its intense, vibrant colors, ranging from deep reds, oranges, and yellows to shining purple, greens, and blues.
Green, red, and orange are common in Ammolite jewelry since they are present in the upper layers of this gemstone. On the other hand, purple and blue are rare since they shine from deep within.
A rainbow Ammolite is extremely rare and offers a mystical chromatic shift between colors. Also known as the ”Seven Color Prosperity Stone”, the hues of Ammolite represent a balance of the different elements – metal, water, fire, earth, and wood.
How to spot low-quality Ammolite?
High-quality Ammolite jewelry will have colors throughout the stone. High-grade Ammolite will showcase at least two colors or more. If the colors are dull, not iridescent, do not shift upon rotation under light, or if you notice an uneven distribution of the color, then the gemstone is of a low-quality or a fake.
Patterns
Each Ammolite is unique because no two stones are the same. Each gemstone has unique fractures that make it stand out. Various types of patterns can be found in Ammolite jewelry, including:
- Stained Glass: The multi-colored cracks resemble tiny window panes.
- Dragon skin: Cracks and patterns that look similar to the scaly beast’s skin.
- Cobblestone: The stone has regular, uneven rows of colors.
- Ribbon: Colors have a long thin pattern.
- Paintbrush: The gemstone has broad strokes of color, much like a paintbrush.
- Moonglow: Rare Ammolite that has an inner glow with mono or dichromatic colors.
- Sunset: Stone has a red-tinged hue with various oranges and yellows to replicate a sunset.
- Lava River: A majorly green Ammolite with red rivers of lava flowing.
- Christmas Tree: Green Ammolite with freckles of red denoting ornaments.
How to spot low-quality Ammolite?
Each high-quality Ammolite jewelry has well-defined, healed fractures and patterns. High-grade, rare Ammolite can even have the patterns that the marine creature once had on its shell. The gemstone should not have any visible cracks or unusual smoothness, indicating poor quality or a fake.
Grading
Ammolite, like other gemstones, is graded based on its color, pattern, and rotational range. The rotational range denotes how far the stone can display its color shift. Although there is no singular grading system, a common grading method is:
- Grade A-: The gemstone has dark or pale colors and a dull luster. When you rotate the stone, there is a minimal chromatic shift, and the rotational range is 90 degrees.
- Grade A: The gemstone has one vibrant color. Iridescence is noticeable but not intense. There is a monochromatic shift which means the color shifts in hues. The rotational range is 180 degrees.
- Grade A+: The gemstone has one or two vibrant colors and a bright iridescence. The stone has a dichromatic shift and a rotational range of 250 degrees.
- Grade AA: The stone has three or more colors and brilliant iridescence. There is a spectral-chromatic shift, and the rotational range is 360 degrees.
When buying any Ammolite jewelry, pay attention to the grading of the gemstone. The higher the grading, the better quality Ammolite it is.
Cut and Shape
The cut and shape of Ammolite jewelry can also affect its quality and value. High-quality Ammolite can be cut to enhance its natural patterns and colors while retaining the gemstone’s integrity. Common shapes like oval, round, and teardrop are easily available. Unique shapes like freeform and asymmetrical cuts also make for stunning jewelry pieces.
When purchasing Ammolite jewelry, look for well-executed cuts that highlight the gemstone’s natural beauty without compromising its structural integrity. Poorly cut or uneven stones can indicate low-quality or fake Ammolite.
Conclusion
A sharp eye and knowing what to look for can help you get your hands on authentic, high-quality Ammolite jewelry. Remember, an Ammolite with high iridescence, chromatic shift, patterns, and colors will undoubtedly be authentic. A bright yet unnaturally smooth stone without any patterns, iridescence, or chromatic shift is either a fake or an extremely low-quality Ammolite.
