Properties of Ametrine

Ametrine is a rare gemstone found in quartz in the presence of amethyst and citrine in equal quantities (50 percent each), according to Gem Select. Each crystal has a slightly different color and pattern because of the varied positions of the three substances inside the quartz. Ametrine can be shaped into spherical or pyramidal shapes, and is generally purple in color with streaks of occasional yellow or orange. Ametrine is found naturally in the Anahi Mine in Bolivia, and was discovered by native peoples in the Hyderabad Mine in India.

Physical Properties

• Ametrine is considered durable and has a Mohs hardness value of 7, according to Shimmerlings. The Mohs scale of hardness was invented in 1812 by German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs to rate the differences in scratch potential of the various mineral structures. According to All About Gemstones, if a given material can be scratched by topaz, but not by quartz it has a hardness value of 7.5. Ametrine has a trigonal crystal structure and is also known as trystine or bolivianite, the latter owing to its original origins in Bolivia. It has a chemical composition of SiO2, is from the class tectosilicate, has a specific gravity of 2.65, an index of refraction of 1.55 and a birefringence ("double refraction," the effect the crystal has on light rays) of 0.009, as explained by Mineral Miners.

Color

• The different colors noted in ametrine crystals are, in fact, due to the different levels of oxidation of iron contained within the structure. The level of oxidation depends on a specific temperature gradient within the crystal during its formation. Any hotter or colder overall, and the whole crystal would have formed as an amethyst or a citrine instead, proving how important the conditions are at the birth of the ametrine gemstone. Bolivian specimens tend to be the most richly colored. Many crystals are clean and have a good luster.

Healthcare Properties

• One of the most widely known metaphysical properties of this gemstone is its claimed effect on the health and mental wellbeing of people who suffer from depression, mood swings and anxiety. It is thought to have a calming effect on mood and enhances feelings of tranquility. This represents a combined set of properties from the amethyst and citrine, and a range of properties purely associated with the ametrine itself, including stimulation of the intellect and reduction of negative energies and thoughts. Ametrine is considered to strengthen the nervous system, promote healing and recovery from illness and assist in the delivery of oxygen from lungs to body cells. Other possible effects, some of which may work as a result of a placebo-like process, which is a valid medical treatment, include reduction in heart disease, dementia, deafness and eye problems.

Metaphysical Effects

• Owing to its proximity in nature to amethyst and citrine, both considered "power stones" because of their supposed influence on various factors in life, ametrine is thought by some to enable its owner a better relationship with money. Some believe it gives the owner a more satisfying level of control over the money he has, allowing him to make better financial decisions; some even feel their gemstones have enabled them to improve their wealth. It should be noted that these metaphysical effects are not sufficiently proven by the same number of professional scientists as standard medical claims.