Explore the Fascinating World of Ammolite Gemstone Grading

A Comprehensive Guide to Grade Canadian Ammolite Gemstones

Curious about what makes Ammolite special? At Iniskim, we’re dedicated to not only providing the highest quality gemstones but also educating our community about the unique beauty of our favourite Canadian gem.

Our Ammolite stones, known for their dazzling array of colours, are among the rarest gems in the world. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the grading criteria that determine the value and quality of Ammolite, ensuring you know exactly what to look for when selecting these exceptional treasures.

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Ammolite grading and discover what sets these gemstones apart.

Grading Criteria for Ammolite

The quality and value of Ammolite are determined based on several key factors: colour, brilliance, clarity, and the extent of the gemstone’s play-of-colour. Let’s break down each of these criteria:

Colour

• Hue: The primary colours in Ammolite are red, green, and blue, with rarer hues like gold and purple being highly prized. The presence of multiple vibrant colours enhances the gem’s value.
• Range: High-quality Ammolite exhibits a wide range of colours. A stone displaying all seven spectrum colours (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet) is considered exceptional.

Brilliance

• Intensity: Brilliance refers to the intensity and brightness of the colours. The more vivid and bright the colours, the higher the grade.
• Movement: The colours should remain bright and change as the stone is viewed from different angles, showcasing the gem’s dynamic nature.

Clarity

• Inclusions: Clarity is assessed based on the presence of natural inclusions or fractures. Fewer inclusions indicate a higher quality stone.
• Surface condition: The surface should be smooth and free from cracks or blemishes that could affect the stone’s durability and appearance.

Play of Colour

• Uniformity: The distribution of colour across the surface should be even and continuous. Stones with patchy or spotty colour distributions are less desirable.
• Pattern: The patterns in which the colours appear, such as ribbon, mosaic, or sheet patterns, can also influence the stone’s appeal and grade.

Ready to learn more about the different patterns of Ammolite? At the heart of Ammolite’s allure, each gemstone is as distinctive as a fingerprint.While some patterns are among the most recognizable, certain types have gained popularity for their striking visual appeal and rarity. Click to learn more about the many variations.

Grading Scale

Ammolite is typically graded on a scale from A to AAA, with AAA representing the highest quality. Here’s a brief overview of what each grade signifies:

• AAA Grade: Exhibits bright, vivid colours across at least three-quarters of the gemstone’s surface, with minimal inclusions and excellent clarity.
• AA Grade: Displays bright colours covering around half to three-quarters of the surface, with good clarity and fewer inclusions.
• A Grade: Shows a moderate play of colour, covering less than half of the surface, with noticeable inclusions and less brilliance.

As a leading source of Ammolite gemstones in the industry, we understand the importance of comprehending the intricacies of Ammolite grading. Not only are you acquiring a gemstone; it’s about making an informed choice that resonates with your passion and vision.
We’re dedicated to fostering transparency and education, providing you with the insights needed to navigate the wondrous realm of Ammolite gemstones with confidence and clarity.

Why Ammolite Grading is Unique

Grading Ammolite gemstones is distinct from grading other coloured gemstones due to several unique factors:

• Organic origin: Unlike many coloured gemstones that are minerals, Ammolite is an organic gemstone, formed from the fossilized shells of ancient ammonites. This organic origin contributes to its unique iridescence and the variability in its patterns and colours.
• Microstructure of Aragonite: The play of colour in Ammolite is due to the microstructure of aragonite, which is different from the crystal structures found in other gemstones like sapphires or emeralds. This unique structure results in the gemstone’s characteristic iridescence.
• Colour play and pattern: While many coloured gemstones are valued for their single, intense hue, Ammolite is prized for its display of multiple colours and the specific patterns these colours form. This dynamic colour play sets Ammolite apart from other gemstones.
• Rarity and source: Ammolite is found only in specific geological formations in Alberta, Canada, making it rarer than many other coloured gemstones that can be sourced from multiple locations worldwide.

Embrace Informed Decision-Making

Understanding Ammolite grading isn’t merely a matter of aesthetics – it’s a gateway to unlocking the true value and allure of these magnificent gemstones.

By familiarizing yourself with the grading criteria, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances that distinguish one Ammolite gemstone from another. From the vibrant hues of its colours to the mesmerizing play of light, each graded gemstone tells a unique story, waiting to be discovered and cherished.

Ammolite’s mesmerizing beauty and rarity make it a prized gemstone. We hope that this guide will help you understand and appreciate the nuances that make each piece unique. We’re proud to offer gemstones that embody the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship.

Whether you’re embarking on your first Ammolite acquisition or adding to an existing collection, our commitment to education ensures that every gemstone purchase is not just a transaction but a transformative experience – a journey of exploration and enlightenment.

For more detailed insights into Ammolite grading and to view our exquisite collection, visit our blog and shop page.