This page gathers the gemstones in our collection that originate from Bolivia, a source associated above all with the quartz family. Three varieties appear here: amethyst, citrine and ametrine — the bicoloured quartz in which purple and golden zones meet within a single crystal.
All three share the same mineral species, quartz, and differ in colour alone. Amethyst owes its purple to iron-related colour centres within the crystal lattice; citrine shows yellow to orange tones arising from iron in a different state. Ametrine is the natural union of the two, its zoning determined by conditions of growth. Bolivia is the origin most closely associated with natural ametrine in the gem trade.
When choosing between them, consider how the stone will be worn. Amethyst reads deepest in richer, more saturated tones; citrine carries warmth and suits yellow metals particularly well; ametrine requires a cut that places the colour boundary deliberately, so examine how the two zones are balanced face-up. As always, ask us about the specifics of any individual stone, including cut, clarity and any treatment history.
