A rare and beautiful gemstone, Ametrine, is a cut above the rest. Take a look at its significant properties from the following article.

Gemstones are a visual delight. Not only do they look beautiful and enchanting, but they also possess healing powers. That's why gemstone jewelry is popular among men and women alike. However, not all gemstones are widely known. One such example is Ametrine.

Ametrine derives its uniqueness from the fact that it looks like a combination of two different gemstonesxe2x80x95Amethyst and Citrine. It is a naturally-occurring variety of quartz, and reflects two shades, 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.

According to a legend, a Spanish conquistador received the mine in the dowry on marrying a princess named Anahi from the Ayoreos tribe in Bolivia. The Ametrine was introduced to the European countries through the conquistador's gifts to the Spanish Queen.

Significant Properties 

•Ametrine falls under the macro crystalline variety of the mineral quartz. Macro crystalline quartz are those in which the 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 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 comes from trace amounts of iron (40 parts per million) that get oxidized due to the exposure to naturally-occurring ionizing-radiation (a byproduct of the decay of potassium 40). The yellow 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 a transparent or translucent appearance.

•Being a quartz, this gemstone has a chemical composition of SiO2.

•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.

 

 

Metaphysical Properties

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. There is a belief that the healing properties of this crystal are very strong, as it can provide the benefits of both, the Amethyst and Citrine. It aids in the treatment of digestive and nervous system disorders, as well as improves the skin, and hearing power. It has the potential to bring about peace and 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 energy that can produce harmonizing effects. This stone is considered beneficial for those who are born under the zodiac signs of Pisces.

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. 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. However, its uniqueness and healing properties will definitely make it a commercial success.