Ametrine
| Also known as | Quartz (Quartz family) |
|---|---|
| Colour | Purple, Yellow, Orange |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Lustre | Vitreous |
| Streak | white |
| Crystal system | Trigonal |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | none |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | Silica (silicon dioxide, SiO 2 ) |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 |
What is Ametrine?
Ametrine, also known as trystine, golden amethyst, or by the trade name bolivianite, is a variety of quartz with alternating zones of purple and yellow-orange coloration. Its name is a portmanteau of amethyst and citrine. While ametrine is commonly referred to as a combination of these two quartz varieties, some sources claim this is not accurate. Almost all commercially available ametrine is mined in Bolivia.
How to identify Ametrine
- Lustre: Vitreous.
- Hardness: Mohs 7 — hard enough to scratch glass.
- Streak: white.
- Habit: Trigonal crystal system.
Ametrine in different forms
Stones often confused with Ametrine
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Ametrine?
Ametrine is Mohs 7 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Ametrine?
Ametrine is typically purple, yellow, orange (Purple, yellow to orange).