Digital Twin System for Fossils and Gemstones

Open Opened on October 4, 2025
Main contact
LUCENTARA / Dinosty Fossils
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
Caitlin Furby
CEO
(26)
5
Project
150 hours per learner
Learner
Anywhere
Intermediate level

Project scope

Categories
Databases Software development
Skills
3d modeling digital archiving digital twin database management scalability collections
Details

The goal of this project is to develop a comprehensive digital twin system for Dinosty Fossils, a division of LUCENTARA, to enhance the preservation and accessibility of their fossil and gemstone collections. The project involves creating detailed 3D models of each fossil and gemstone, accompanied by a restoration log and a unique digital fingerprint. This system will enable better tracking, restoration, and educational opportunities by providing a digital replica of each item. The project will allow learners to apply their knowledge in 3D modeling, database management, and digital archiving. By the end of the project, Dinosty Fossils will have a prototype system that can be expanded upon for future collections.

Deliverables

The deliverables for this project include a functional prototype of the digital twin system. This will consist of:


- 3D models of a selected set of fossils and gemstones.


- A digital restoration log for each item, detailing the restoration process and history.


- A unique digital fingerprint for each item to ensure authenticity and traceability.


The system should be user-friendly and demonstrate the potential for scalability.

Mentorship
Domain expertise and knowledge

Providing specialized knowledge in the project subject area, with industry context.

Skills, knowledge and expertise

Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.

Hands-on support

Direct involvement in project tasks, offering guidance, and demonstrating techniques.

Tools and/or resources

Providing access to necessary tools, software, and resources required for project completion.

Regular meetings

Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.

About the company

Company
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
2 - 10 employees
Retail, Sales, Science, Trade & international business
Representation
Family-Owned Indigenous-Owned Neurodivergent-Owned Small Business Women-Owned

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.