Although new gems are rarely discovered these days, previously known gems are often being used in new way. Ametrine is such an example and it is being given a new look.

Gemstones can be a great way to showcase your style and taste. It is easy to find a gemstone that is in your favorite color, or shape, or that represents your birth month. For all these reasons and more, gemstones are seen to be an important part of the jewelry industry. Some people, however, are on a quest for more. The average gemstones seen in jewelry may not be unique or eye catching enough for these jewelry connoisseurs, so they search out new and unusual pieces, like an ametrine necklace.

Ametrine is a type of stone that is not really new to the jewelry world, but is just recently gaining popularity. This stone is a type of quartz, which is a familiar gemstone to most people. Many already know about clear quartz (often seen in its natural crystal formation) and rose quartz, the beautiful light pink stone that is sometimes used to represent October's birthstone. Ametrine is an entirely different sort of quartz – it is bicolored.

The colors of ametrine, as can be found in such pieces as an ametrine necklace, are purple and citrine (yellow). These colors, combined together, look just like amethyst and citrine that were placed together artificially – but they are mined this way. The quartz is naturally occurring, and it comes from a specific mine in Bolivia (there are other places where it can be found, but this is the most abundant source). It is said that ametrine was introduced to Europe in the 17th century, when it was included in a conquistador's gifts to the queen of Spain.

Most jewelers cut the ametrine to show off its even mix of yellow and purple hues. The stones are usually seen at a 50/50 mix of the two colors, with a slight gradient in the middle showing where they meet. The center gradient allows for a range of peach colors to be seen within the middle of the stone. Other artisans prefer to cut the stone in different ranges and mixes, in order to create a new look to the ametrine.

If you are in the market for a new piece of jewelry, an ametrine necklace can be a great addition to your collection. This dual colored gem can compliment a wide range of other jewelry and gemstones, as well as accent different types of clothing. Those who seek unique jewelry will not be disappointed with the ametrine's beauty.