Ametrine is a variety of quartz that contains both amethyst and citrine sectors in the same crystal. Both amethyst and citrine are colored by small amounts of iron (approx. 40 parts per million). Amethyst color develops when iron-containing quartz is exposed to ionizing radiation. In nature, gamma rays from the decay of potassium-40 are the most likely source of ionizing radiation. The model currently accepted is that radiation oxidizes Fe3+ to Fe4+. There is still uncertainty about the site of the iron. Both interstitial sites in the c-axis channels, and the silicon tetrahedral sites have been proposed as the site of the amethyst center. Citrine color is from Fe3+. The properties of the Fe3+ spectra suggest that the Fe3+ ions are aggregated and hydrated in clusters of unknown size.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
• Ametrine Chemical composition: SiO2 (minor iron impurities cause ametrine’s colors)
• Class: tectosilicate
• Crystal system: Hexagonal-R; 32 (trigonal-trapezohedral)
• Crystal habit: Macroscopic crystals occur as horizontally striated hexagonal prisms terminated by a combination of positive and negative rhombohedrons forming six sided pyramids. It can also be massive.
• Specific gravity: 2.65
• Index of refraction: 1.54-1.55
• Birefringence: 0.009
• Pleochroism: distinct
• Hardness: 7
• Color: two distinct colors present, yellow-orange and purple
• Cleavage: none
• Fracture: conchoidal

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Ametrine is said to have all the metaphysical properties of both amethyst and citrine combined, as well its own unique properties; aids in meditation, relieves tension, disperses negativity and helps to eliminate prejudice.
Amethyst is said to bring serenity and calm, and to enhance one’s ability to assimilate new ideas. It is also said to give strength and mental stability, and to provide balance between one’s physical, emotional, and intellectual states. Amethyst is also said to make one shrewd in business matters. Amethyst is said to help remove toxins from the body and to treat arthritis. It also is said to be useful in treating a number of disorders including those of the digestive system, heart, nervous system, skin and hearing. Amethyst also is said to help provide relief from pain and strengthen the immune system.

Citrine is said to be especially useful in stimulating one’s mental capacities, and to enhance creativity and intuition and strengthen one’s self-confidence. It is also said to give emotional control while making one more alert. Citrine is also said to be very helpful in assisting one to acquire and maintain wealth. Citrine is said to help remove toxins from the body and to treat muscular disorders, and to help stimulate healing in general. It also is said to be useful in treating a number of other disorders including those of the heart, liver, kidneys and digestive system. Citrine is also said to help provide relief from the effects of radiation, and to facilitate absorption of antioxidants.