Korite International is a privately owned and operated company based in Calgary, Alberta. The company has been mining the rare and exotic gemstone ammolite since 1979 and is the world’s largest producer of ammolite. Ammolite occurs on the fossilized shells of ammonites, a group of marine invertebrate animals that became extinct over 65 million years ago. Korite International mines ammolite within the Kainah Nation reserve in southern Alberta, where about half of the world’s ammolite deposits are found. Operating within the reservation, they provide employment for many of the Kainah Tribe members and pay them royalties as part of the mining agreement. The mining operation consists of open pits usually two hectares (five acres) in size and approximately 15-20 meters (50-65 feet) deep. Over the years, Korite has excavated approximately 16 hectares (40 acres) of land, of which about 14 hectares (35 acres) have been completely restored to their natural state. Korite has proudly set new environmental standards in their reclamation process. Once the rough ammolite gem has been recovered and sorted it is brought to Calgary where the gem cutting and jewellery manufacturing operations are located. Korite produces a complete line of men’s and women’s ammolite jewellery in sterling silver, 14K and 18K gold, and platinum. Like amber and pearl, ammolite is considered to be a biogenic gemstone and is known for its iridescent opal-like characteristics, mostly in shades of green and red. According to practitioners of Feng Shui, ammolite is prized as a stone that enhances well being and detoxifies the body by improving its flow of energy or “chi”. Because ammolite displays all the spectral colors found in nature, each color is believed to influence the wearer in a variety of positive ways; the colors in ammolite are believed to enhance growth, wisdom, and wealth. Because of these properties, ammolite has been given the pet name “Seven Color Prosperity Stone”.
