The Rarest Amethyst: Orchid Bolivian Gemstones

Bolivian Amethyst is a unique type of amethyst known for its large crystals and rich colour. Single crystals can range from 2 to 4 inches in diameter, and clusters can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. Bolivia is known internationally for producing some of the largest amethyst points in the world. Amethyst is a purple gemstone that was believed to be as expensive as rubies and emeralds until the 19th century when Brazil's large deposits were discovered. Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is associated with the zodiacs of Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius, and Capricorn.

Bolivian Amethyst's colour and meaning

Amethysts from Bolivia are known for their rich, saturated purple colour. They are also known for their large size, with single crystals ranging from 2" to 4" in diameter, and clusters weighing up to 1,000 pounds. Bolivia produces some of the largest amethyst points in the world and is known internationally for its large points and clusters.

The name "amethyst" comes from the ancient Greek word "amethystos", which means "not drunk". It was believed that amethysts could prevent intoxication. Amethysts were as expensive as rubies and emeralds until the 19th century, when Brazil's large deposits were discovered.

Ametrine, a mixture of amethyst and citrine with zones of purple and yellow or orange, is also mined in Bolivia. The colour of the zones is due to differing oxidation states of iron within the crystal. The citrine segments have oxidised iron, while the amethyst segments are unoxidised. This difference in oxidation occurs due to a temperature gradient across the crystal during its formation.

Bolivian amethysts are sourced from the Anahi Mine, which lies near the border of Brazil and close to the Pantanal wetlands. This area is extremely remote and is only accessible by a rugged road for a few months of the year or by a small plane.

Where it's found

Orchid Bolivian Amethyst is mined in Bolivia, as the name suggests. Bolivia is known for producing some of the largest amethyst points in the world. The Anahi (Anay) mine in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, is a notable source of amethyst.

The legend of Ametrine's introduction to Europe is tied to Bolivia. According to the story, a conquistador received a mine in Bolivia as a dowry when he married a princess from the native Ayoreos tribe. He then gifted the amethyst to the Spanish Queen in the 1600s.

How it's sourced

Orchid Bolivian Amethyst is a variety of quartz, also known as ametrine or bolivianite. It is a mixture of amethyst and citrine, with zones of purple and yellow or orange. The different colours within the stone are due to differing oxidation states of iron within the crystal. The citrine segments have oxidised iron, while the amethyst segments are unoxidised. This difference in oxidation occurs due to a temperature gradient across the crystal during its formation.

Ametrine is sourced from mines in Bolivia, specifically in the Anahi (Anay) region of Santa Cruz. It was first introduced to Europe in the 1600s when a conquistador received a mine in Bolivia as a dowry upon marrying a princess from the native Ayoreos tribe. He then gifted the ametrine to the Spanish Queen. Today, almost all commercially available ametrine is mined in Bolivia.

Ametrine can also be created artificially through the hydrothermal method, using solutions doped with specific elements, followed by irradiation of the created crystals. However, ametrine in the low-price segment may be synthetic, and green-yellow or golden-blue ametrine does not exist naturally.

Amethyst's historical value

Amethyst has been valued for centuries for its beauty and its symbolic significance. The ancient Greeks believed that amethyst gems could prevent intoxication, and the word amethystos means "not drunk" in ancient Greek. Medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets as protection in battle, believing that amethysts could heal and keep them level-headed. Amethyst was also used as a gemstone by the ancient Egyptians and was employed in antiquity for intaglio engraved gems.

Beads of amethyst have been found in Anglo-Saxon graves in England, and Anglican bishops continue to wear episcopal rings often set with an amethyst. Amethyst is the official gemstone of the province of Ontario, Canada, and it is the birthstone for February.

In the Middle Ages, amethyst was considered a symbol of royalty and was used to decorate English regalia. It was once considered as valuable as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, but since the discovery of extensive deposits in locations such as Brazil, it has lost most of its value.

Amethyst's uses

Amethysts are used for a variety of purposes, with many of them being related to health and wellness. While these uses are not backed by scientific research, amethysts are said to have several physical and mental health benefits.

Physical Health Benefits

Amethysts are said to have several physical health benefits, including enhancing the immune system, improving endocrine function, improving the skin's appearance, and promoting digestive health.

Mental Health Benefits

Amethysts are believed to promote serenity and calm, reduce anxiety, and help with achieving clarity and inner peace. They are also said to aid in stress relief and inspire creativity.

Spiritual Benefits

In the spiritual realm, amethysts are reported to open a person's third eye, which is considered a source of power and wisdom. Crystal practitioners believe that amethysts can enhance spiritual visions and enlightenment. Additionally, amethysts are thought to absorb negative energy and create an air of tranquility when placed in the home.

Other Uses

Amethysts are also used in jewellery, such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They are believed to bring good luck and are traditionally worn by bishops. Amethysts are also used in meditation and can be placed in the office or bedroom to promote a peaceful space.

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