Learn More About These 3 Gemstones and Their History

Ametrine is one of the world's most unusual gemstones in that it is actually two gems in one! Ametrine blends the golden sunburst of Citrine with the purple sunset of Amethyst aquamarine crystal. The unusual color variation found in Ametrine is due to the presence of iron in different oxidation states within the crystalline structure. Exactly how this comes about is not fully understood. The world's only source of Ametrine, the Bolivian Anahi mine became famous in the 17th Century when a Spanish Conquistador received it as a dowry after marrying an Ayoreos princess named Anahi. Ametrine has only been readily available to the consumer market since 1980 when material from the Anahi mine in Bolivia began to appear on the market in larger quantities. Before this it was considered to be quite unusual and was known as Amethyst-Citrine Quartz, Trystine or Golden Amethyst.

Amethyst

With the mythology surrounding the origin of Amethyst, it is perhaps fitting that it was once considered a talisman to prevent drunkenness, which explains why wine goblets were once made from this gem. Indeed, it derives its name from the Greek word "Amethustos", meaning "Not Drunk". It is believed that Amethyst holds the power to change anger into tranquility, it is also believed that Amethyst is a protective gem that bounces off psychic attack, reverting negative energy into positive. As a gemstone of great healing and meditative powers, Amethyst is also believed to purify the energies of the mind, body and spirit. Amethyst's shades of purple have served as a symbol of royalty throughout history. Pharaohs, Kings and Queens, as well as leading lights in religious sects have long treasured it because of its rich, royal color. Because Amethyst is thought to encourage celibacy and symbolize piety, it was a key feature in the decoration of Catholic churches in the Middle Ages. Amethyst was considered to be the "Papal Stone" and even today, Bishops still wear Amethyst rings.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine has long been associated with its ability to capture oceanic energy. When amulets made of Aquamarine were worn, sailors believed that unmatched bravery would be instilled in their souls aquamarine gemstone. These fisherman's friends accompanied their owners while out on the high seas, and in the event of a storm, were tossed overboard to placate Poseidon's anger. Interestingly, Thai culture contains a common belief that Aquamarine can ward off seasickness and prevent wearers from drowning. Because of its association with the sea, Aquamarine is considered to be a gemstone of purification and cleansing that washes the mind with fresh clear thoughts and promotes self-expression. Its calming effects make it a popular gemstone for those who practice meditation, as it is also believed to eradicate fears and phobias. Brazil has been the world's major supplier of Aquamarine for decades. The infamous Marambaia area is one of the most important sources of fine Aquamarine in the world. However, today, several African nations, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and Madagascar provide an equal, if not greater supply of similarly beautiful examples. The different shades of Aquamarine are distinguished by their own names. "Santa Maria" is the name of the rare, intensely deep blue Aquamarine found in the Santa Maria de Itabira mines of Brazil. Very similar colors are also found in certain mines in Africa, especially in Mozambique, where they have come to be known as "Santa Maria Africana". Another Brazilian beauty is the deep blue "Espirito Santo", coming from the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo. Another beautifully colored variety has taken its name from a 1954 Brazilian beauty queen, "Martha Rocha".