Ametrine, also known as bolivianite, is a naturally occurring variety of quartz. It is a mixture of amethyst and citrine with areas of purple and yellow or orange. Almost all commercially available ametrine is mined in Bolivia. The color of the areas visible within ametrine is due to different oxidation states of the iron within the crystal. Citrine segments have oxidized iron while amethyst segments are unoxidized. The different oxidation states occur due to the presence of a temperature gradient in the crystal during its formation. Artificial ametrine is created from natural citrine through beta irradiation (which creates an amethyst portion), or from amethyst that is transformed into citrine through differential heat treatment. Legend has it that ametrine was first introduced to Europe by a conquistador who gave it as a gift to the Spanish queen in 1600, after receiving a mine in Bolivia as a dowry when he married a princess of the native Ayoreos tribe.
Dimensions
Height (cm): 2.5
Depth (cm): 2
Width (cm): 3
Weight (g): 20-30
Property
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Mohs scale: 7
Relative Density: 2.65
Crystal System: Hexagonal
Metaphysical Corner
In the metaphysical world, ametrine is believed to have a calming effect and increase tranquility. It is also used for meditation, as it is said to be able to tune into higher states of consciousness, naturally inducing meditation and helping to achieve calm more quickly.
