Green Amethyst : A Macrocrystalline Quartz

Green Amethyst, a green variety of quartz that is sometimes a confusing gem when traded under a variety of names. It is sometimes mistaken as other gems like Peridot and Tourmaline. Also known as Vermarine, Green Quartz, Lime Citrine or by its gemological name, Prasiolite. Although affordable, it is very rare and remains a collector’s gemstone. In gemological name it is derived from the Greek words “Prason” meaning leek (due to its colour similarities with the vegetable) and “Lithos” meaning stone. The gem is believed to facilitate the gap between the physical and spiritual aspects of life, attracting prosperity through strengthening the mind, emotions and will by the crystal healers. Although Quartz of exotic beauty to be set into jewellery and not in great abundance, Quartz is found in many geological environments and is a component of almost every type of rocks. It is also the most varied in terms of varieties, colors and forms. Quartz gemstones are separated into two groups based on the size of their individual crystals. Green Amethyst is a Macrocrystalline Quartz (a large crystal) and this group includes many popular gemstones such as Amethyst, Citrine and Ametrine. All forms of Quartz are Piezoelectric (when heated or rubbed they create an electrical charge becoming a magnet that attracts lightweight objects), making for important applications in electronics. Tourmaline is the only other gemstone that possesses this property. Green Amethyst’s color varies from a pale yellow green to the deeper shades of green. With beautiful colors ranging from pastel yellow green to deep forest green, it is also a tough gemstone making it ideal for everyday wear. Green Amethyst is most mined in Brazil and Arizona, U.S.A.