Overview
About Ametrine
Whether projecting from pegmatite walls or encrusting cavities in volcanic rock, quartz abounds worldwide. People have used quartz in jewellery for thousands of years. When quartz displays the colours of amethyst and citrine in a single gem, the material is called ametrine or amethyst-citrine. Ametrine’s only commercial source is the Anahi mine in Bolivia.
No place else
There is only one commercial source for ametrine: the Anahi mine in Bolivia.
Nature’s gift
The presence of amethyst and citrine colours in a quartz crystal is a rare gift of nature.
Cutter’s choice
Ametrine’s colours blend, combine and contrast uniquely in each gem.
Facts
-
Mineral:
Quartz
Chemical composition
Treatments
There are a number of processes used to alter the colour or apparent clarity, or to improve the durability of gems.
Learn MoreSynthetics
Some gemstones have synthetic counterparts that have essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties, but are grown by man in a laboratory.
Learn MoreImitations
Any gem can be imitated – sometimes by man-made materials or by natural materials chosen by man to impersonate a particular gem.
Learn More
Why We Love This Gemstone
Unique
No two ametrines look the same because the colours in each gem combine in a unique way.
Rare
There’s only one commercial source of ametrine, so the supply is very limited.
A Cutter’s Inspiration
Cutters delight in finding ways to maximise the beauty of ametrine.
Quality Factors
The following factors combine to determine ametrine’s value.
Colour
Fine ametrines show beautiful contrast between their orange and purple shades.
Clarity
Faceted ametrine generally has no eye-visible inclusions.
Cut
Unusual cutting styles add drama to ametrine’s unique colour combination.
Carat Weight
A wide range of sizes is available. Large material is popular with gem carvers.
Ametrine Quality Factors: The Comprehensive Guide
Research
Explore sources, gemmological research and the role of gems in history.
Update on Ametrine from the Yuruty Mine, Bolivia
Brendan M. Laurs , Mar 1, 2010 Read more in EnglishAmetrine Optical Dishes: Windows into the Effects of Crystal Structure
Elise A. Skalwold and William A. Bassett , May 8, 2017 Read more in EnglishUsing Conventional Equipment to Separate Natural from Synthetic Ametrine
Guy Lalous , Jul 25, 2014 Read more in English
