Lapis Ammonites

Snake-Stone, Ammonite, Cornua Ammonis, Draconites
Shi Shi (‘Snake Stone’, TCM)
Picture Picture
Metallotheca Vaticana, Mercati, 1719

Picture Cross section of Ammonite
British Mineralogy, Sowerby, 1804

Picture Ammonite
(Photo by Mokkie) (Wikimedia)

History

Lapis Ammonite was occasionally listed in Materia Medica, but rarely were there any medical uses given.

As it resembled a coiled up snake, it was apparently used as an amulet against Snake Bite, and against Poison. They were also used in Magic.

Ancient Greeks used it for Insomnia and to promote pleasant dreams by putting under the pillow. Held as a charm were believed to prevent Snake bite.
 In Folk traditions they were used for Impotence and Infertility. In a Greek tradition an ammonite is steeped in water before a wedding, then the couple drink the water for 40 days to ensure Fertility.

In old TCM texts there is mention of its use against Metal and Mineral Poisons. (Porter-Smith)

In general, we could expect it to have properties of similar fossils: cool, dry, the heaviness and ancient nature settling Wind and calming the Mind and Spirit.