A Jewel of Alberta: Ammolite Named the Province's Official Gemstone
In a landmark announcement, Alberta has crowned Ammolite as its official gemstone, shining a spotlight on this rare and vibrant treasure found only in southern Alberta. This recognition isn’t just a win for the gemstone itself—it’s a celebration of Alberta’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and global impact in the world of fine gemstones.
For decades, Ammolite has captivated gem enthusiasts and collectors with its stunning iridescence and kaleidoscope of colors. Each gemstone tells a story millions of years in the making, originating from the fossilized shells of ammonites—prehistoric marine creatures that thrived during the age of the dinosaurs.
Now, with this prestigious designation, Ammolite takes its rightful place as a symbol of Alberta’s unique geological history and enduring legacy.
Symbolizing Alberta's identity and heritage as the 12th official emblem - Ron Orr, Minister of Culture, Government of Alberta
On March 17, 2022, I tabled Bill 6, the Emblems of Alberta Amendment Act in the provincial legislature. Once passed, this amendment will recognize Ammolite as the official gemstone of Alberta. This designation reflects not only the gem’s exceptional beauty but also its rarity and ties to Alberta’s unique geological heritage.
The Journey to Becoming Alberta’s Official Gemstone
The recognition of Ammolite as Alberta’s official gemstone is the result of a collaborative effort spearheaded by local advocates who understood its significance.
The process involved engaging community members, government officials, and local businesses to shine a spotlight on Ammolite’s importance. This acknowledgment honours the role of Southern Alberta’s Bearpaw Formation, a prehistoric marine treasure trove, in creating these remarkable Ammonites over 70 million years ago.
The official designation also highlights the economic and cultural impact of Ammolite. Companies like KORITE have long been at the forefront of responsibly mining, promoting, and crafting this rare gem into pieces that captivate people worldwide.
What Makes Ammolite So Special?
Few gemstones can match the allure and rarity of Ammolite. Found only in limited deposits along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, this gem boasts a naturally vibrant spectrum of colours ranging from fiery reds and oranges to calming greens and blues. These hues are more than just beautiful—they carry cultural significance.
For centuries, Indigenous Peoples of the Blackfoot Confederacy have revered Ammolite, calling it the "Buffalo Stone" or "Iniskim"and believing it brings prosperity, good health, and protection. Today, its metaphysical properties remain popular, often linked to Feng Shui practices for promoting positive energy and balance.
A Global Stage for Alberta's Gemstone
The official gemstone designation cements Alberta’s reputation as a world-class source of Ammolite. For KORITE, this recognition is a meaningful milestone. As the world’s largest producer of Ammolite, KORITE has championed this extraordinary gem for over four decades—transforming raw Ammonite fossils into exquisite jewelry and art pieces while supporting ethical mining practices and local communities.
“This isn’t just about the gem,” says KORITE representatives. “It’s about celebrating the province, the land, and the stories that connect us all. We’re proud to share Alberta’s rich heritage with the world through Ammolite.”
A Gemstone Worth Celebrating
Whether you're an Albertan proud of your homegrown treasure or a global gemstone enthusiast intrigued by Ammolite's beauty and rarity, this announcement is a moment to celebrate.
To commemorate this historic recognition, KORITE invites you to explore our Ammolite collections—each piece a vibrant reminder of Alberta’s spirit and a testament to the timeless allure of this one-of-a-kind gemstone.
Discover the brilliance of Alberta’s gemstone today and wear a piece of history that’s millions of years in the making.
Shop our latest collections and experience the beauty of Ammolite at korite.com.