Ametrine: Bolivian Beauty

Ametrine is one of the best bargains in the gemstone/jewelry industry. Most commercially available ametrine comes from one place in the world, yet has a price range that will enable many to enjoy it. Ametrine offers those adorned with it a color combination that is sure to catch the fascination of people around them.

A 17th century conquistador received a Bolivian mine as dowry for marriage to the Ayoreos tribe’s Princess Anahi. According to legend, he gave the queen of Spain ametrine, which is how the gemstone was first introduced to Europe. Now known as Bolivia’s Anahi mine, it is the only location in the world from which natural ametrine enters the market for consumers.

India has produced amethyst that contains tiny amounts of citrine. Brazilian quartz of lesser quality, but similar in nature to ametrine, has occasionally been found.

Ametrine is quartz that occurs naturally. As the quartz crystals were being formed, different temperatures within the crystals affected the oxidation process of the iron inside the crystals. Ametrine gemstones are bi-colored as a result of the oxidation process. Natural ametrine will have the powerful purple of an amethyst and the yellowish orange of citrine combined in one stone.

Ametrine is usually cut in rectangular shapes, but lately, many gemstone cutters have been trying fancier cuts which allow for more flash. Ametrine that has deep, clear color with well defined color separation is usually more valuable. Fancier cuts have also been found to cost a bit more than the traditional rectangular cuts. The best color contrast of ametrine is usually seen in gemstones that are 7 carats or larger.

In 1994, a Russian laboratory developed synthetic ametrine. It has made its way to markets in small quantities and is lower in price. Ametrine stones that are green/yellow or blue/gold are synthetic. These are not natural stones and have been created in a lab, so buyers beware. They are still pretty to look at, but they are not genuine natural ametrine.

Ametrine, also known as bolivianite, trystine, golden amethyst, or amethyst-citrine quartz, has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Its durability makes it ideal for jewelry, such as pendants or rings, and it only requires normal gemstone care. Ametrine is not affected by temperature changes.

Metaphysically, some people believe ametrine rids the mind of negative thoughts, alleviates tension, and provides mental clarity, which allows for better meditation.

For a gemstone with color combination, and viewer fascination, it doesn’t take much meditation—ametrine has it all. With ametrine, your wardrobe can achieve an expensive image at a very affordable price. 

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