Ammonites

ancient ammonite fossil

I have been working with spiral patterns all week; paper nautilus, fiddlehead ferns and ammonite castings.  A customer asked if my ammonite fossils could be drilled.  Well, they certainly can be!
My goal with this one was to get a large, at least 5mm hole, so that it could be worn on any of my vintage chain necklaces.  
I have always been drawn to ammonites and have collected them at rock, gem, even antique shows and flea markets over the years.  My collection was relegated to a dusty drawer in my studio until yesterday.  After drilling the fossil, I realized it could never be worn without leaving a dusty, rusty spot, so I sealed it (the surface and the hole) with several layers of professional jeweler's lacquer. Not only will it preserve the finish, but it really enhances the beautiful color and texture of the ammonite without changing it all.  
I'll be spending some time in the studio today, drilling and lacquering more of these beauties to be worn my favorite way, on a simple leather cord....the perfect accessory for summer: easy and natural!