Ametrines. Learn more about this outstanding gem from Bolivia
- William
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Among the many gemstones of the world, Ametrine stands out as a rare gem—a natural blend of the purple of amethyst and the golden of citrine. This bi-colored quartz, known for its unique dual coloration, is coveted for its beauty and unique color range.
What Is Ametrine?
Ametrine is a naturally occurring variety of quartz that exhibits zones of both amethyst (purple) and citrine (yellow or orange) within the same crystal. This fusion is a result of varying oxidation states of iron within the crystal, influenced by temperature fluctuations during the stone’s formation.
Scientifically, ametrine’s dual coloring is caused by exposure to different temperatures within a single crystal during its growth. This rare phenomenon creates a striking contrast, often with a seamless transition from purple to gold.
Origin and Sources
The Anahí Mine in Bolivia is the world’s only commercial source of natural ametrine. Discovered in the 17th century, the mine has a rich history intertwined with legend. The legend goes that the mine was gifted as a dowry from a Bolivian princess named Anahí to a Spanish conquistador, symbolizing the union of two worlds.
Physical and Optical Properties
Mineral Family: Quartz
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Crystal System: Trigonal
Refractive Index: 1.54–1.55
Birefringence: 0.009
A pair of Ametrines, with a clear color zoning.
Ametrine is suitable for everyday wear in jewelry due to its durability, although care should be taken to avoid sharp blows and prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can sometimes alter its coloration.
Cutting and Value
Ametrine is often cut in ways that enhance its color contrast. The finest ametrines display a clear, well-defined separation between the purple and yellow hues, with excellent saturation and transparency.
Value is determined by the intensity of color contrast, clarity, carat weight, and quality of the cut. While ametrine is generally affordable compared to other bicolor gemstones, high-quality specimens with artistic or precision cuts can command premium prices.
Jewelry and Custom Design
Ametrine’s versatility makes it ideal for bespoke jewelry. At TWAK Gems, we specialize in transforming natural ametrines into handcrafted bespoke jewelry, with our Gem to Jewelry program.
