Difference between revisions of "Ammolite"
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Natural ammolite has a hardness of 3.5, but is most often sold as a doublet or triplet in order to protect the gem material. Natural stones are often impregnated with an epoxy to strengthen the ammolite.<br /> | Natural ammolite has a hardness of 3.5, but is most often sold as a doublet or triplet in order to protect the gem material. Natural stones are often impregnated with an epoxy to strengthen the ammolite.<br /> | ||
Color comes from interference, and it is dependant on the thickness of the layers of aragonite. From thickest to thinnest: red, green, blue, purple<br /> | Color comes from interference, and it is dependant on the thickness of the layers of aragonite. From thickest to thinnest: red, green, blue, purple<br /> | ||
− | The color play is a result of iridescence ( | + | The color play is a result of iridescence (interference). |
==Sources== | ==Sources== |
Revision as of 08:47, 16 December 2006
Ammolite | |
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Chemical composition | CaC03 with trace elements |
Crystal system | Orthorhombic |
Habit | Fractured and non-fractured flat layers |
Fracture | Parting along layers |
Hardness | 3.5 |
Refractive index | 1.525 - 1.670 |
Birefringence | 0.135 - 0.145 |
Specific gravity | 2.60 - 2.85 |
Lustre | Vitreous to resinous |
Ammolite is an organic gemstone that is mined in Southern Alberta, Canada.
Natural ammolite has a hardness of 3.5, but is most often sold as a doublet or triplet in order to protect the gem material. Natural stones are often impregnated with an epoxy to strengthen the ammolite.
Color comes from interference, and it is dependant on the thickness of the layers of aragonite. From thickest to thinnest: red, green, blue, purple
The color play is a result of iridescence (interference).
Sources
- Ammolite: Iridescent Fossilized Ammonite .. - Keith A. Mychaluk et all.- Gems & Gemology (Spring 2001)