LUCENTARA / Dinosty Fossils
LUCENTARA / Dinosty Fossils
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
Description

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.

Number of employees
2 - 10 employees
Categories
Competitive analysis Market research Product or service launch Project management Sales strategy
Industries
Retail Sales Science Trade & international business
Representation
Family-Owned Indigenous-Owned Neurodivergent-Owned Small Business Women-Owned

Socials

Recent projects

Global Brand Campaign for "The Canadian Gem"

Lucentara, a leader in luxury ammolite jewelry, seeks to establish ammolite as "The Canadian Gem" on a global scale. The project challenges students to develop a comprehensive brand campaign that resonates with diverse international markets, specifically targeting North America, Europe, and Asia. Students will begin by analyzing cultural perceptions of color, luxury, and gemstones in these regions. They will then craft creative marketing strategies that highlight Lucentara's unique blend of science, luxury, and Canadian heritage. The goal is to create a cohesive narrative that positions ammolite as a prestigious and culturally significant gemstone, appealing to varied audiences across the globe. This project provides an opportunity for students to apply their classroom knowledge in marketing, cultural studies, and brand management to a real-world scenario.

Admin Caitlin Furby
Matches 2
Category Branding & style guides + 4
Open

Ammolite Market Intelligence Dashboard Development

Lucentara is pioneering the creation of the first Ammolite Market Intelligence Platform, designed to offer a comprehensive view of global ammolite prices, supply trends, and demand within the jewelry and fossil sectors. The project's primary goal is to equip Lucentara with a data-driven dashboard that provides actionable insights, giving them a strategic advantage in the gemstone industry. Students will be tasked with collecting and analyzing data from various online marketplaces and trade sources. This project offers learners the opportunity to apply their knowledge of data analytics and business intelligence to a real-world scenario. By uncovering insights that are currently unavailable in the industry, students will contribute to a groundbreaking initiative that could reshape the understanding of ammolite market dynamics.

Admin Caitlin Furby
Matches 2
Category Data visualization + 4
Open

Ammolite Detection System Prototype

The goal of this project is to develop a prototype for an ammolite radar detection system, which will enhance the ability to locate and identify ammolite deposits. Ammolite, a rare and valuable gemstone, is primarily found in fossilized ammonite shells. The detection system aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of locating these deposits, which are often buried beneath layers of sediment. By leveraging radar technology, the system will provide a non-invasive method to detect ammolite, reducing the need for extensive and disruptive excavation. The project will involve researching existing radar technologies, designing a prototype system, and testing its effectiveness in controlled environments. This project provides an opportunity for learners to apply their knowledge of geophysics, radar technology, and system design.

Admin Caitlin Furby
Matches 1
Category Engineering project management + 2
Open

AI-Driven Optical Encoding with Ammolite

This project explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and natural design by using the vibrant, iridescent colors of ammolite, a rare fossilized gemstone, as a model for optical encoding. The goal is to develop an AI-driven system that can analyze and replicate the color patterns found in ammolite to create a new form of optical communication. Learners will apply their knowledge of AI, machine learning, and optical physics to identify how these natural patterns can be translated into a digital format. The project will involve researching the properties of ammolite, developing algorithms to mimic its color variations, and testing the effectiveness of these patterns in encoding information. This project provides a unique opportunity to blend natural science with cutting-edge technology, offering insights into both fields.

Admin Caitlin Furby
Matches 0
Category Artificial intelligence + 4
Open

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