About Korite

Learn About the brand

1979, a unexpected shift was about to ripple through the gemstone world. Rene Vandervelde, a man fueled by paleontological passion and a keen business sense, stumbled upon a treasure - a business opportunity with the Kormos family.<br><br> From this deal, KORITE was born, a name that would soon echo in the corridors of luxury and beauty. Rene had a dream, not just to sell a gem but to narrate the tale of Ammolite's vibrant history. Discovered in 1906 by the Geological Survey of Canada, this gem bore colors as rich as its past. Indigenous Canadians revered it as the "Buffalo Stone", while others felt its unique energy, dubbing it the "Energy Stone" or "Spirit Stone". Originating from the fossilized Ammonite Cephalopods, while non-gemmy versions of these fossils are found globally, it's only in the Bearpaw Formation of Southern Alberta that they transformed into the vibrant gemstone known as ammolite.<br><br> KORITE isn't just about mining; it was about responsibility. Their dedication to ethical mining practices has earned them recognition for environmental stewardship and social responsibility. They have been a leading voice in the Ammolite jewelry community, advocating for best practices. Their commitment to quality is unwavering, with every piece of jewelry backed by a Lifetime Guarantee. From mining to designing, from crafting to selling, KORITE had a hand in every part of every ammolites journey.<br><br> But what truly sets KORITE apart is the gemstone itself. In 1981, ammolite was officially designated a precious gemstone by CIBJO (the world governing body for precious stone categorization). This recognition placed ammolite alongside esteemed peers like Opal, Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald. Its rarity was its charm, found only in a secluded corner of the Earth, and no two pieces are identical. This ensures that every KORITE piece is a unique statement of luxury.<br><br> As years rolled on, KORITE's spirit of innovation shone brightly. 2021 saw them unveiling three masterpieces: Starlight, Origins, and Radiant. David Lui, the visionary CEO, believed the world was ready, hungry for a fresh perspective on their rare gem. In collaboration with Blackfoot Rocks & Gems, KORITE also launched a unique capsule collection, with all revenue donated to the Opokaa'sin Early Intervention Society, emphasizing their commitment to community and cultural appreciation.<br><br> Every piece of KORITE jewelry is a testament to nature's marvels and human craftsmanship. Ethically mined and handcrafted by skilled artisans, each ammolite gem is a unique masterpiece, reflecting the vibrant hues and patterns of Canada's gemstone. From its humble beginnings, KORITE has expanded its operations, securing the majority of the world's raw supply of ammolite. Their creations, a blend of raw beauty and refined artistry, have found admirers across the globe.