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| In
the early 20th century ammonites
were re-discovered by geologists of the Canadian Geological Survey in
the river valleys of southern Alberta. It wasn’t
until the early 1960’s when expertise from the Australian Opal Industry
was
brought in to develop gem stabilizing and cutting techniques that would
help
build consumer confidence and provide for a consistent quality of gem. |
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The prairie of southern Alberta was once a fresh-water inland sea. The Bearpaw Sea covered most of the province and layed down over 1000 feet of dark grey shale that is known as the Bearpaw Formation. Ammonites occur throughout this formation in clearly defined horizons. Here our mining team strips away the top soil after having cleared archaeological, paleontological and environmental assesment and impact. |
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Even though the coulees and
rolling prairie of Southern Alberta is an area of less than average
precipitation, ground water penetration can
oxidize and damage the aragonite shell covering
on the ammonite. To avoid these damaged concretions we must dig below water seepage for the protected fossiliferous
layers. Often the best gem bearing layers are protected by a thick
layer of bentonite which is the result of earlier volcanic ash deposit.
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An iron rich concretion
protects the ammonite from breaking up during deposition. The ammonite
to the left shows the vibrant red color that is the most common color
occuring on Bearpaw Ammonites. Named Red Blazer, this commercial grade
material is used to make non-gem products such as our Feng Shui
Symbolics.
Below, left and right, are before and after pictures of an ammonite that shows a perfect shape.
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