Chrysoprase is a vibrant green variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz colored by trace amounts of nickel that create its distinctive apple-green hue. This translucent to opaque gemstone is considered the most valuable form of chalcedony and has been prized since ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans using it for jewelry and decorative objects. Its bright, uniform green color and waxy luster distinguish it from other green gemstones, and unlike emerald, chrysoprase's color remains stable in sunlight.
Specifications:
- Color range: Bright apple green to deep mint green, sometimes with subtle yellow or blue undertones
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on Mohs scale
- Origin: Primarily Australia (Queensland - highest quality), Poland, Brazil, Kazakhstan, Madagascar, and Tanzania
- Sizes: Available from small 4mm beads to large 40mm+ cabochons; commonly found in medium to large sizes
- Shapes: Round and oval cabochons, beads, carved objects, tumbled stones, and flat slabs for inlay work
- Transparency: Translucent to semi-translucent with occasional opaque areas
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous when polished, creating smooth lustrous surfaces
- Durability: Good toughness and stability; color may fade slightly with prolonged sun exposure but typically recovers in darkness
