Ammonite Concretion Removal Precision Project
Main contact
Portals
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Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Project scope
Categories
Engineering project management Scientific researchSkills
geology research paleontologyThe goal of this project is to develop a precise methodology for removing the concretion surrounding an ammonite fossil from Southern Alberta. The concretion, a hard, compact mass of mineral matter, encases the fossil and must be carefully removed to preserve the delicate structure of the ammonite. This project will allow learners to apply their knowledge of geology, paleontology, and precision tools to develop a step-by-step process for safe and effective concretion removal. The team will research existing techniques, evaluate their effectiveness, and propose improvements or new methods. The project emphasizes precision, safety, and the preservation of the fossil's integrity. Tasks include literature review, tool selection, and method testing.
- Research existing concretion removal techniques.
- Evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these techniques.
- Develop a detailed methodology for ammonite concretion removal.
- Test the proposed methodology on sample fossils.
The project deliverables include a comprehensive report detailing the research findings, proposed methodology, and testing results. Additionally, a presentation will be prepared to showcase the methodology and its effectiveness. The team will also provide a set of guidelines and recommendations for future concretion removal projects.
- Comprehensive report on research and methodology.
- Presentation of findings and proposed methodology.
- Guidelines and recommendations for future projects.
Providing specialized knowledge in the project subject area, with industry context.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Direct involvement in project tasks, offering guidance, and demonstrating techniques.
Providing access to necessary tools, software, and resources required for project completion.
Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
About the company
Lucentara
Science | Technology | Innovation
Lucentara is a Canadian science and innovation company dedicated to advancing the study and application of ammolite and other natural materials. Founded by Caitlin Furby and Mark Turner, Lucentara operates at the intersection of geology, materials science, and design — exploring how nature’s rarest formations can inspire modern advancements in technology and sustainability.
Through ongoing research partnerships and applied experimentation, Lucentara develops cutting-edge methods for fossil preservation, laser restoration, and structural color analysis. Every discovery contributes to the deeper understanding of ammolite’s optical and geological properties, positioning Lucentara as a pioneer in natural photonics and gemstone science.
Lucentara represents the future of Canadian innovation — where art, science, and nature converge.
Dinosty Fossils
Mining | Restoration | Heritage
Dinosty Fossils is the foundation of Alberta’s ammolite industry — a mining and restoration company co-founded by Mark Turner and Caitlin Furby, specializing in the ethical extraction and preparation of ammonite fossils and gem-grade ammolite from the Bearpaw Formation.
Operating across more than 1,200 hectares of mineable land in Southern Alberta, Dinosty Fossils combines traditional field expertise with modern restoration technology to bring prehistoric treasures back to life. Every specimen is meticulously excavated, stabilized, and restored by hand, honoring both its geological origin and its natural artistry.
Through Dinosty Fossils, Furby and Turner have built one of Canada’s most respected fossil operations — supplying collectors, museums, and jewelers worldwide while preserving the integrity and story of each discovery.
Main contact
Portals
-
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada