Opalised Ammonite

An ammonite fossil showing flashes of play-of-colour opal within its ribbed shell — the original shell material replaced, at least in part, by silica during fossilisation, catching blue and green fire across the ridged whorls.

Interesting fact

Fully opalised ammonites (gem-grade material is called "ammolite") are mined almost exclusively along a single stretch of the Bearpaw Formation in Alberta, Canada — a 71-million-year-old seabed and one of the only places on Earth where the rare conditions needed to opalise a shell, rather than simply turn it to stone, ever occurred.

Region of Origin

Origin details to follow.

Availability

We currently hold multiple pieces of this type in a range of sizes. Let us know whether you're after something small and delicate or a larger statement piece when you enquire, and we'll match you with what's in stock.

Enquire — quote ID TA-0002