Ammolite is found almost exclusively in southern Alberta, Canada, along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. This region is the only known location in the world where gem-quality Ammolite is commercially mined, making it exceptionally rare and geographically unique.

Ammolite was formed over 70 million years ago from the fossilized shells of ancient ammonites that lived in prehistoric seas. Over time, pressure, mineralization, and geological conditions preserved the shell’s aragonite layers, creating the vibrant iridescent colours seen in Ammolite today.

Ammonite refers to the fossilized shell of an extinct marine mollusk, while Ammolite is the rare, gem-quality material derived from that shell. Not all ammonite fossils produce Ammolite—only those with preserved iridescent aragonite layers are considered gemstone quality.

Ammolite is approximately 70 to 75 million years old, dating back to the Late Cretaceous period. It formed from ancient ammonites that lived in prehistoric oceans that once covered what is now Alberta, Canada.

Ammolite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world, found almost exclusively in a small region of southern Alberta, Canada. Only a small percentage of ammonite fossils produce gem-quality Ammolite, making high-quality material exceptionally limited and highly sought after.

Learn more about Ammolite’s rarity and formation.

Yes, Ammolite can be highly valuable, depending on its colour, brightness, and rarity. Stones that display a full spectrum of vivid colours—especially rare blues and reds—are the most prized and can command premium prices in the gemstone market.

Explore what determines Ammolite’s value.

Ammolite is mined in Canada under strict environmental regulations and responsible mining practices. We prioritize land stewardship, reclamation, and partnerships, ensuring ethical mining and respect for the land.

KORITE practices a reclamation process that proudly sets environmental standards in
the Ammolite mining industry.

Ammolite is available through select retailers, fine jewellery stores, and directly from authorized sources. Due to its rarity and limited geographic origin, high-quality Ammolite is not widely available and is often sold through specialized gemstone and jewellery companies.

Yes, KORITE guarantees the authenticity and quality of its Ammolite jewellery. Each piece is crafted using genuine Ammolite and backed by a commitment to craftsmanship, durability, and long-term customer satisfaction. Please have a look here for more information.

KORITE produces two types of gemstones:

1. Ammolite Naturals: These stones have a hardness of 3.5 on the Moh’s scale, like that of a penny, and are discovered and polished with minimal treatment. These gemstones can be used for pendants and earrings only.

2. Ammolite Triplets: These gemstones are calibrated to a precise size to fit in jewellery settings and are covered with a quartz crystal cap increasing its hardness to 7+ on the Moh’s scale; like that of a steel nail. This increases the stones durability and makes it ideal for all categories of jewellery.

A natural Ammolite stone consists of a naturally polished and stabilized gem-quality Ammolite, while an Ammolite triplet is Ammolite layered with a quartz crystal cap. This is used in jewellery to enhance durability.

Ammolite was officially recognized as a gemstone in 1981 by the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO). This designation acknowledged its rarity, beauty, and unique organic origin.

Ammolite is graded based on its brilliance, colour variety, and clarity, with four grades: AAA, AA, A, and Standard. The highest grades, AAA and AA, make up only about 3–5% of KORITE’s annual production, highlighting their rarity and beauty.

Ammolite is often compared to opal due to its iridescent colour play, but the two gemstones differ significantly in origin and rarity. While opal is a silica-based mineral found worldwide, Ammolite is an organic gemstone formed from fossilized ammonites and is found almost exclusively in Alberta, Canada, making it far rarer.