Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
The opal like iridescence of these ammonites from Alberta, Canada has been termed "ammolite" - and since 1981 has had the status of a gemstone. The shimmering, metallic colours were caused by the combination of millions of years of compression and the mineralization of iron, copper and silica which precipitated from volcanic ash. The opalescent layers of colour are particularly prized in the Chinese philosophical system of Feng-Shui.
The ammonites are a group of molluscs that lived in the seas from the mid-Devonian (approximately 400 million years ago) to the end of the Cretaceous (65 million years ago). The sequence of events that famously killed off the dinosaurs also drove the ammonites to extinction.
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Sculpted By Nature: Fossils, Minerals and Meteorites
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Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
Overall in very good condition, the iridescent surface of the specimen largely intact but displaying some hairline cracks and wear commensurate with age and extraction, a few unobtrusive chipped areas seemingly infilled to stablise. The specimen firmly supported on bespoke stand, itself in good condition, noting a possible water mark to the upper surface of the base.
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Lot 56Sale 18819
CANADAA LARGE IRIDESCENT AMMONITEEstimate: GBP 60,000 - 90,000
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