Huge Cretaceous Era Opalized Ammonite Fossil Specimen in Matrix

Description

A casualty of the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction along with the dinosaurs, ammonites from Alberta Canada are known for their gemstone opalescence. Early ancestors of octopus and squid, they swam in an inland subtropical sea that bordered the Rocky Mountains. Buried in layers of bentonitic mud that later morphed into shale, the iridescent aragonite was preserved. The Blackfeet tribe call the stone iniskim, or "buffalo stone", believing it helpful in buffalo hunts.  It was also included in medicine bundles as a healing stone. Feng shui practitioners call it the "Seven Color Prosperity Stone", and say it encourages the flow of energy, or chi. This particular ammonite is from the Bearpaw Formation in Canada, and is very large and beautiful, with deep flashes of scarlet. Similar to a fire opal, the colors and shimmer shift with the angle. A fine specimen for a fossil collector or rockhound...or anyone who enjoys a 66 million year old beauty. Measures aprox. 14" x 13" x 5". 33 pounds.