At Iniskim, our goal is to introduce, educate and pique interest about one of the rarest gemstones in the world. We welcome any questions you might have about Canadian Ammolite and our company. Here you’ll find general questions that are frequently asked, but we encourage you to contact us if you have more.
Ammonites are the fossils of extinct marine mollusks that lived approximately 65 to 240 million years ago during the geological time period known as the Mesozoic era. They were similar to modern-day squid or nautilus and possessed distinctive spiral-shaped shells.
Ammolite, on the other hand, is a gemstone material derived from the fossilized shells of Ammonites. It is formed when the original aragonite shell of an Ammonite is preserved and undergoes a process called mineralization over millions of years.
Our head office is located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Iniskim provides a Conditional Lifetime Guarantee with all of its premium products.
We work exclusively with a select number of Ammonite and Ammolite producers to source the best products that include Ammonite fossils, Ammolite gemstones, baculites and hand specimens. Our products are authentic, ethically sourced, personally selected, and the best quality there is to offer.
Yes, please visit our online Shop or contact us for wholesale enquiries.
To care for your Ammolite or Ammonite, handle them with clean hands or wear gloves to avoid transferring oils or dirt. Clean them gently using a soft, dry cloth or a brush with soft bristles to remove dust and dirt, avoiding water or chemicals. Store them in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight, and consider using a display case or padded container for protection.
Protect them from moisture and avoid exposing them to high humidity or extreme temperature changes. Some ammolite specimens may have a protective coating, so be cautious when cleaning and consult a professional if unsure. With these precautions, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your Ammolite or Ammonite.
The Bearpaw Formation in Alberta is the exclusive source of gemstone-grade Ammonite. This variety stands out with its exceptional and distinctive colours, making it the only type to hold official gemstone status.
Over 71 million years, the Ammonite fossils were preserved through a combination of immense tectonic pressure, mineralization from the soil, heat, and time. The mineral composition of fossilized Ammonite shells consists of hundreds of thin, iridescent layers of minerals. This process preserves the structure of the shell while creating unique colours and patterns. However, not all Ammonite fossils undergo this process, making gem-quality ammolite rare and prized for its distinctiveness.
The colour is created by the refraction of light passing through the many layers of the Ammolite shell.
Iniskim’s responsible practice means that we ethically source our Ammolite from trusted partners
Iniskim’s Ammolite products are currently available by request and at Iniskim’s Shop. Please contact us for further inquiries on our collection of loose gemstones, hand specimens, baculites and Ammonite fossils.
Ammolite has four grades:
The hardness of Ammolite typically ranges between 3.5 and 4.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The Mohs scale is a system that ranks minerals based on their relative hardness, with 1 being the softest (talc) and 10 being the hardest (diamond). Ammolite falls on the lower end of the scale, indicating that it is relatively soft compared to many other gemstones and minerals.
Yes, Iniskim does provide our products to other companies. We are a B2B and B2C company.
In 1981, the official gemstone status for Ammolite was granted by the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), an international organization that establishes industry standards and definitions for gemstones.
Ammolite is one of few organic gemstones in the world. Amber, pearl and coral are also included.
For Ammolite, the rarest and most highly sought-after colours are generally considered to be the vivid and vibrant shades of blue and violet. These hues are relatively less common compared to other colours found in Ammolite, such as green and red.
Ammolite is recognized as the “Seven Color Prosperity Stone” by Feng Shui masters because the gemstone features a spectrum of colours. Beyond its healing abilities, each colour embodies significance.
The Blackfoot Tribes of North America first discovered Ammolite, referring to it as “Buffalo Stone” or “Iniskim”. The name signifies wealth and abundance. Folklore tales shared over generations have referred to Ammolite as a sacred stone that was received as a gift from the gods over 1,000 years ago.
Authentic Ammolite gemstones from reputable sources and sellers, such as Iniskim, are not treated or enhanced in any way.
Ammolite gemstones have two forms: freeform and calibrated. Freeforms are cut to maintain as much natural color and shape as possible to ensure that the natural material of Ammolite is not compromised.
Calibrated Ammolite gemstones are cut to ensure that shapes for jewellery such as pear, square, rectangles, ovals, cabochon, tapered baguette and marquise can be used, particularly for sets which has been a long withstanding staple for Ammolite jewellery design.
The calibrated gemstones, as an industry standard, can include:
Polished naturals
Doublets
Triplets
The hardness of natural Ammolite gemstones is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 on Mohs scale of hardness, so it is anticipated for the gemstones to be stabilized. This can be completed by either using a hard quartz or spinel cap to a hardness of 7, or an epoxy to stabilize and then hand polished depending on the supplier.
Yes. Ammolite’s value has increased exponentially over the past decade alone, with an estimated 30% increase year over year, making it a highly lucrative choice for a gemstone investment. Its surging popularity and limited supply make it a promising option with the potential for significant returns on investment.
Ammonite is over 71 million years old.
The pricing of Ammonites is determined by various factors, including their size, shape, colour, quality, brightness, and most notably, the species. Each Ammonite is unique, and these characteristics play a significant role in determining their individual prices.
The only species of iridescent Ammonite fossil was formed over millions of years by tectonic pressure and mineralization and is found only in the Bearpaw Formation in Southern Alberta.
To determine the authenticity of an Ammonite fossil, consider factors such as its geological context, examining the morphology, symmetry, preservation, and texture of the fossil. Genuine Ammonite fossils are typically found in sedimentary rock formations and exhibit natural variations and signs of wear.
Due to the presence of reproductions or fakes in the market, acquiring fossils from trusted sources, such as Iniskim, and obtaining a certificate of authenticity and proper government documentation are additional measures to ensure the legitimacy of an Ammonite fossil.
Ammonite fossils are relatively common in geological terms, but their rarity can vary depending on factors such as the species, quality of preservation, and availability of fossil sites. While certain species may be more abundant, rarer and well-preserved specimens with unique characteristics are highly sought after.
Overall, Ammonite fossils from Southern Alberta are considered inherently rare, exceptional specimens that hold greater value among collectors and enthusiasts.
Yes, Ammonite fossils can be purchased legally in Canada.
