Russian Ammonites with a Metallic Appearance are typically pyritized ammonites. These ancient marine fossils have undergone a process called pyritization.
Weight: Pyritized ammonites are notably heavier due to the density of the iron pyrite.
Details: The pyritization process can preserve the fine details of the shell, including suture lines and external ornamentation.
Age: These fossils are primarily from the Jurassic period (ranging roughly from 201-145 million years old).
In essence, these are not naturally metallic ammonites, but rather fossils transformed by minerals, giving them their characteristic metallic appearance and iridescence
- Attracting prosperity and abundance: Pyritized ammonites are strongly associated with drawing in wealth, good fortune, and limitless potential. This is likely due to the association of pyrite with abundance and the spiral's connection to the Fibonacci sequence, representing the natural unfolding of growth and success.
Here's what gives them their metallic look:
Pyrite Replacement: During fossilization, the organic matter and shell structure of the ammonite are replaced by pyrite (an iron sulfide mineral) through a chemical process that occurs in oxygen-depleted environments.
Iridescent Sheen: Many pyritized Russian ammonites display a brilliant iridescence or metallic sheen when rotated under a light source. This effect is often present on both the exposed outer shell and the internal chambers which may be coated with pyrite crystals. Common locations for these fossils in Russia: Volga River Basin, particularly near Saratov and Ulyanovsk.
Pietersite
Spiritual Grounding and Insight
Pietersite is believed to have a strong connection to the storm element, symbolizing dynamic energy flow and transformation. This connection is thought to make it a powerful tool for spiritual awakening and grounding, helping individuals remain steadfast and centred even during tumultuous periods. Pietersite discharges negative energies, cleansing the aura and restoring calm.
Enhancing Intuition and Vision
Those who believe in stones' metaphysical and healing properties often use pietersite to enhance intuition and inner vision. It’s said to open the third eye chakra, associated with insight, foresight, and a connection to spiritual realms. The pietersite metaphysical properties also include helping with emotional storms, self-confidence, and spiritual grounding.
Stimulating the Willpower and Personal Growth
As a stone of transformation, pietersite is credited with bolstering one’s willpower, courage, and determination. It’s often used by those seeking to break old habits, overcome limitations, and foster personal growth. Pietersite is a strengthening stone, supportive and empowering for those struggling with addiction or emotional difficulties.
Empowerment and Confidence
Pietersite can be a symbol of self-awareness and empowerment. Its dynamic energy is thought to instill confidence, assertiveness, an inner self, and the ability to embrace one own physical body’s true power and potential.
Protection from Negative Energies
Like many stones believed to have metaphysical properties, pietersite is also considered protective, guarding against negative energies and influences. Its ‘storm element’ symbolism is considered a barrier against emotional turmoil and psychic attacks.
Rutilated quartz (also known as Venus' Hair Stone) is a variety of quartz which contains acicular (needle-like) inclusions of rutile. It is used for gemstones. These inclusions mostly look golden, but they also can appear silver, copper red or black.
What is rutilated quartz used for? It acts as a potent energy filter, purging negative emotions and fostering emotional clarity. The presence of golden or silver rutile needles is believed to infuse the stone with transformative energy that aids in releasing emotional baggage and promoting self-love.