Though it is technically a fossil, ammonite is also held in high regard as a powerful healing stone. The ammonite mollusk was a shelled cephalopod that typically had a spiral, coiled shape. They once inhabited the oceans of the world but went extinct during the same period as the dinosaurs. Today, ammonites are found as fossils in marine rocks all around the world.
Because ammonite evolved quickly and their fossils can be found in many locations spanning the globe, they have proven to be a useful tool for indexing and dating rocks. Though they are prevalent, however, ammonite fossils have been prized and used by humans since the dawn of history. Today, they remain a powerful tool in metaphysical healing practices and are prized by healers and fossil collectors alike.
Ammonite History
As mentioned, ammonite is a fossil from a creature that lived during prehistoric times. The name “ammonite” is derived from the name of an Egyptian god, Ammon, who took the form of a ram. This stone has been used by humans for various purposes for thousands of years. It is said, in fact, that the original discus used by the ancient Greeks during the first Olympic games was a fossilized ammonite. In India, these fossils are associated with a god known as Vishnu. In this part of the world, they are most commonly sourced in Nepal from the bed of the River Gandaki and are known as shaligram shila. They have been used in various ceremonies in Indian cultures for thousands of years.
A related material that is worth mentioning is ammolite. Ammolite is a gemstone-quality iridescent material that is cut from the fossilized shells of ammonites. Found only in a few places, including Madagascar, ammolite is highly desirable for jewelry making and decorative purposes. Essentially, ammonite and ammolite are the same material. Ammonite is the fossil itself, and ammolite is the shell of the fossil. Because they are virtually the same, each carries the same metaphysical and healing properties.
Ammonite Physical Properties
Ammonite is recognizable for its distinct shape that resembles a coil with a wide mouth. The shell is made up of a series of progressively larger chambers known as camerae. These chambers are separated by thin walls known as septa. The last and largest chamber is the body chamber, and it is the only one that was occupied by a living creature. As an ammonite grew, larger and newer chambers formed at the open end of the shell.
This fossil typically is brown but can be found in nearly any natural color. Some specimens are even iridescent. The iridescent varieties tend to be the most valuable and are often cut into gemstones. Ammonite is found all around the world and is considered a common fossil. With a rating of 3.5 to 4 on the Moh’s hardness scale, it is a relatively soft stone that needs to be treated with care in order to avoid damage.
Ammonite Metaphysical Properties
Ammonite is believed to be a powerful earth healing fossil. Because of its spiral shape, it has come to symbolize evolution and continual change. It is also said that these fossils have absorbed vast amounts of cosmic energy over the course of thousands and thousands of years and can use this energy to stimulate vital life force (chi, prana, etc.) in the body. These fossils are also commonly used for activating life path energies.
Ammonites are also believed to eliminate negative energy. The spiral acts as a filter that draws in dark, negative energies that are no longer needed and releases them as bright, loving, and positive energies. These beautiful fossils are closely linked with the third eye chakra, but they also work with the root chakra. It is said that ammonite is a powerful tool for connecting with past lives and ancestors. It is also regarded as a Karmic cleanser and is said to help activate metaphysical powers.
Azurite Healing Properties
Ammonite is believed to carry a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional healing powers. Physically, it is sometimes used to increase vitality and stamina. It is also said to alleviate problems involving the ears and lungs. Ammonite is good for the ligaments, joints, and bones that make up the skeletal system and is thought to help with degenerative diseases (such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis) and broken bones. It is also believed to help with high blood pressure.
Emotionally, ammonite’s ability to transform negative energy into positive can help ease the heavy feeling that often accompanies depression. This fossil’s spiral shape reinforces the fact that everything goes around in circles and can help one gain clarity regarding the importance of healing problems in the past in order to enjoy a better present and future. Ammonite can help you feel more stable and grounded, too.
How to Use Ammonite
If you would like to experience the remarkable powers of ammonite fossils for yourself, there are several ways in which to incorporate them into your daily life. Even if you aren’t interested in them for their metaphysical and healing properties, they make a beautiful decorative addition to any home. Simply placing it in your environment can improve your stamina and improve your mood.
Ammonite is also an excellent stone to use during meditation. Hold it in your hand or place in on your third eye chakra to deepen your meditative experience. You may even be able to connect on a deeper spiritual level when using this stone during meditation. Wearing jewelry made from ammonite is also a good option. Wearing it as a pendant can help you achieve a greater sense of balance and harmony in your mind, body, and spirit. A small piece of ammonite can also be carried in your pocket to encourage a greater sense of overall wellness and to attract prosperity.
If you would like to add a piece of ancient history to your crystal collection, Crystal Allies has you covered. Check out our full selection of high-quality ammonite from Madagascar today!
NOTE: All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.