Properties of Ametrine
Gemstones are a visual delight. Not only do they look beautiful and enchanting, but also have healing powers. That's why gemstone jewelry is popular among men and women alike. But not all gemstones are widely known. One such gemstone is the Ametrine. Let's document its properties to gain an insight into this enigmatic gemstone.
Ametrine is a relatively unknown and unique gemstone. It derives its uniqueness from the fact that it looks like a combination of two separate gemstones - Amethyst and Citrine. It is a naturally occurring variety of Quartz and has two shades reflected in it - Purple and Yellow. That's why it is known as a Bi-color quartz gemstone. This Quartz, also known as Bolivianite, is largely found in the Anahi Mine in Bolivia. Before elaborating on the properties of Ametrine, here is a short historical background.
According to legend, a Spanish conquistador received the mine as dowry on marrying a princess named Anahi from the Ayoreos tribe in Bolivia. The Ametrine got introduced to European countries through the conquistador's gifts to his Spanish Queen.
Significant Properties
- The Ametrine falls under the macrocrystalline variety of the mineral Quartz. Macrocrystalline quartz are those in which individual crystals are big enough to be distinguished with the naked eye.
- The appearance of purple and yellow in the Ametrine is a result of the different oxidation states of iron in the crystal, which occur due to the presence of temperature gradients in the formation stages. It contains trace elements of Fe3+ ions, which bring about the Citrine golden/yellow hue and Fe4+ ions that produce the Amethyst's purple effect. The purple color in Ametrine comes from trace amounts of iron (40 parts per million) that get oxidized due to exposure to naturally occurring ionizing-radiation (a byproduct of the decay of potassium 40). The yellow 'Citrine' color is created by hydrous iron oxide, and/or exposure to naturally occurring gamma rays.
- On the Mohs scale, Ametrine has a hardness of 7. Its refractive index is 1.54 - 1.55 and its relative density is 2.65. It shows conchoidal fracture and has transparent or translucent appearance.
- Being a Quartz, the Ametrine has a chemical composition of SiO2.
- The Ametrine is known for its color, hardness, durability and vitreous luster. The properties of hardness and lack of cleavage, make it easily usable for any kind of jewelry.
The metaphysical properties of this stone are similar to those of the Amethyst and Citrine. Ametrine has also been known to induce a calm mind, and positive attitude. It can be said to have a combined strength of the Amethyst and Citrine. It aids in the treatment of disorders of the digestive and nervous system, as well as improves skin and hearing. It has the potential to bring about peace, tranquility, and provides relief from headaches, tension, depression and all stress related disorders.
It also cleanses the body and mind, and energizes the wearer by eliminating chronic fatigue. It has a certain subtle energy which can produce harmonizing effects. This stone is considered beneficial for those who are born under the zodiac signs of Pisces. There is a belief that the healing properties of this crystal are very strong, as it can provide the benefits of both Amethyst and Citrine.
Ametrine is one of the recent additions to the gemstone market. This is because its mining began in Bolivia only from the 1980s. It is also manufactured synthetically in Russia. It is an exquisitely beautiful and inexpensive stone. An Ametrine weighing around 10 carat is available in the range of USD 20 to USD 100. Its unique dual color effect is most pronounced in stones of over 7 carat.
Since the Ametrine is found and mined mainly in Bolivia, it is not widely available. But because of its uniqueness, it can surely give competition to all other gemstones, and the healing properties, will definitely make it a commercial success. If you are someone who likes both the Amethyst and the Citrine, try buying an Ametrine!
