Ametrine Quartz

Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

Ametrine is a mix of amethyst (purple crystals) and citrine (golden yellow quartz) crystals. Its natural variant is sometimes called bolivianite, trystine, amethyst-citrine, bicolor quartz, and bicolor amethyst.

Natural ametrine quartz crystals are not easy to find outside select mines in Bolivia where it occurs in dolomitic limestone. Mined ametrine is scarce and might not be enough to serve growing demand for luxurious crystals.

Lab-created ametrine quartz is a popular option for lovers of crystals keen to possess gemstones with unique features. But how much do you know about lab-created ametrine quartz?
In this article, you’ll get in-depth information about lab-created ametrine quartz’s chemical composition, uses, maintenance tips, and much more.
History of Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

Most natural deposits of the bicolor quartz crystal come from Bolivia. Historical records claim tribes among the Ayoreo Indians knew about the two-color quartz stones over five (5) centuries ago.
Other early records also reveal that some Spanish conquistadores returned with different variants of lab-created ametrine quartz from Bolivia.

However, lab-created ametrine does not have a history spanning several centuries. The first recorded production of lab-created ametrine was in 1981. Scientists determined that irradiation and heat could convert amethyst crystals to lab-created ametrine.

Further research and lab tests in 1994 produced small quantities of ametrine from alkaline solutions and through hydrothermal processes. Advances in tests have made lab-created ametrine almost indistinguishable from natural crystals.

The earliest record of lab-created ametrine in use was in Russia’s jewelry market. Test successes in the 90s pushed synthetic ametrine into the jewelry industry.
How to Make Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

Natural ametrine forms when iron particles oxidize within the matrix of quartz crystals. The oxidization of these crystals can happen at varying temperatures to form ametrine quartz of different variants.

Lab-created ametrine mimics the natural process to form these crystals, and producers can tweak temperatures and oxidization rates to create unique stones.

Different variations of ametrine quartz are easy to make in the lab, and many scientists can produce these crystals to match natural-occurring pieces.

Uses of Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

Lab-created ametrine quartz is ideal for:

• Glass making,
• Light foundry sand,
• Hydraulic fracturing,
• Gemstones,
• Décor, etc.

Lab-created ametrine quartz is also useful for sand blasting, fiberglass making, refractory brick molding, and much more.

Chemical Properties of Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

• • Hardness (Mohs’ Scale): 7
  • Density: 2.65 g/cm3
  • Chemical Composition: SiO2 (46% silicon, 53% oxygen)
  • Refractive Index: 1.544 – 1.553
  • Dispersion: Low (0.013

)

• Heat Resistance: 500°C – 600°C
• Fracture: Conchoidal
• Specific Gravity: 2.6 – 2.7 g/cm3
• Crystal System: Hexagonal
• Growing Temperature: 350°C – 360°C

Maintenance Tips for Lab-Created Ametrine Quartz

Lab-created quartz is useful for decorative detailing in jewelry more than anything else. However, the surface of this crystal might become dull over time as most gemstones do.
You can maintain lab-created quartz with:

• Jewelry solvents,
• Polishing cloth,
• Liquid soap solution,
• Steam cleaner,

Light maintenance of this crystal is essential to ensure it lasts long. It is best to seek professional advice from jewelers whenever you need to maintain your lab-created ametrine quartz.