Canadian Rockhound: Ammolite 2, A Guide for Gemmologists, Jewellers and Lapidaries

Ammolite cover
Cover of Ammolite 2, a new guidebook by Donna Barnson.

In 1999, I published a book on Ammolite, a gemstone found only in Alberta, Canada. Ed Zeschuk reviewed this book in an online article recently published by the Canadian Rockhound. Because of the interest in ammolite and the apparent need for a guidebook for purchasing and appraising this gemstone, I decided to write a second book.

Ammolite 2 is a 128-page, 8 in. x 11 in. soft cover book with 95 colourful pages showing the history, mining, manufacturing and grading of ammolite. This publication shows dozens of exciting samples of this rare gem from rough material through to the finished jewellery. Designed to give the reader a more intimate look at ammolite, photos showing the exceptional colour ranges, patterns and grades fill the pages of this book. Using the charts and photos in the book, one can follow the steps used to assess, prepare, polish, and set ammolite. Photos of gems showing the colours and patterns that occur most frequently and a simple grading system are helpful for purchasing and appraising this unique gem. One chapter has information on how to assess the quality of ammolite using magnification and other gemmological means. A short history of ammonites and how to prepare, clean and polish them is also included.

This book is expected to be available for purchase February 1st, 2001.

Ammolite, by Ed Zeschuk. Canadian Rockhound, News & Events (October 1999).
Ammonite Jewellery, by Chester Miller. Canadian Rockhound, Summer 1997 (Vol. 1, Issue 3).

This article may not be copied, distributed or reprinted in any form without the author's permission. To contact the author, please use the e-mail address provided. If you are unable to contact the author, please contact the Canadian Rockhound. Authorized reprints must acknowledge the author and the Canadian Rockhound, and include the website URL address of the Canadian Rockhound.

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