Ametrine: properties of the natural stone that is a fusion between amethyst quartz and citrine quartz

Curiosities, properties, and use of ametrine in crystal therapy

Ametrine quartz, or simply ametrine, was introduced to the market recently, specifically in the 1970s. However, there are numerous legends featuring ametrine, one of which tells that the main extraction site was discovered as early as the 1600s by Spanish conquistadors.

Today, it is certain that the only extraction site is in Bolivia, precisely at the Anahi mine.

In crystal therapy, citrine quartz is a highly regarded natural stone believed to facilitate the process of idea formation, providing significant benefits to the body as well.
Physical characteristics and genesis

Ametrine quartz, or ametrine, is a unique and rare variety of quartz, which is crystallized silicon dioxide. The other more common and famous types of quartz include amethyst, rock crystal, citrine quartz, and prasiolite, also known as green amethyst.

It is distinguished by the following characteristics: hardness of 7, specific gravity of about 2.66, and refractive indices ranging from 1.544 to 1.553.

The double color of ametrine, a fascinating stone

Ametrine is a very unique gem because a single specimen simultaneously displays the purplish or violet tones of amethyst quartz and the warm, vibrant yellow tones of citrine quartz. The term ametrine quartz indeed comes from the fusion of the names of these two very famous varieties of quartz.

The purple and yellow in most cases do not have a distinct boundary but blend into each other, while at other times they follow the twinning structures typical of quartz; for this reason, in some specimens of ametrine, it is also possible to see other shades ranging from lilac to colorless.

Experts have explained the coexistence of the two different color tones due to the presence of iron in different oxidation states but have discovered that it can also depend on the heating and irradiation of the host rock, which occurs entirely naturally.

Price and value of ametrine

Several factors play a crucial role in determining the price and value of ametrine. The main ones are the quality of the gem itself, the carat weight, the purity, and the cut.

However, it should be noted that in the gem world, ametrine has an affordable price, though it is partially influenced by size and color intensity. For instance, a medium-sized specimen with less defined color tones may be worth less than a smaller gem with vivid and bright tones.

By visiting the page on our website dedicated to ametrine, it is possible to view all the quotations and characteristics of the available offers.

The most suitable cut for ametrine

The cut of ametrine quartz, as with all precious stones when in gem quality, is carefully studied to highlight all its chromatic characteristics.

Among the preferred cuts for ametrine quartz are faceted cuts, along with step cuts and other mixed cuts where light passes through the gem and reflects on all facets, helping to accentuate the gem's brilliance.

Many ametrine stones, however, are shaped into irregular smooth stones or smooth spherical cuts to be subsequently drilled to create refined jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets.

Not only ametrine jewelry from Lineagem

Despite their typical double and contrasting purple and yellow tones, ametrine gems are particularly luminous because they belong to the quartz family.

It is precisely the colors and luminosity of this natural stone that make it particularly suitable for creating jewelry.

In our online catalog, we present not only elegant jewelry pieces made of ametrine but also collectible ametrine gemstones and irresistible strands of ametrine gems, which can serve as inspiration for those who enjoy creating their own jewelry.

Cleaning and care of ametrine

To preserve the typical shine of not only ametrine but all quartz stones over time, it's useful to follow small yet essential precautions. It becomes extremely important to take care and pay attention, for example, to avoid exposing the ametrine stone to direct contact with chemicals that can be present in low percentages even in detergents as well as in various cosmetic products.

We recommend removing natural ametrine jewelry before doing household chores and being careful when using makeup products.

It's suggested to store ametrine jewelry inside their own cases to protect them from possible impacts or dust deposits.

For a gentle cleaning to be done daily, it's sufficient to immerse the ametrine gem for a few seconds in a solution of warm water with just a few drops of neutral soap and then wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Rinse it under running water and let it air dry for a few minutes after blotting excess water.

However, ametrine is a gemstone that, thanks to its unique chromatic qualities, is a perfect choice for creating unique and original jewelry that can become the perfect gift idea for special occasions such as birthdays or wedding anniversaries.

Check out our selection of ametrine quartz jewelry!