These deeply saturated stones with their distinctive apple-green hues are rare and valuable. The most highly prized examples of chrysoprase are found in the mines of Queensland, Australia, hence its nickname, Australian Jade. It is the stone of enterprise, and said to bring success and good fortune. The spiritual meaning of Chrysoprase is one of joy, prudence and happiness. The green coloring of Chrysoprase has earned it the nickname ‘Jadine’ or ‘Australian Jade’, and indeed rich examples of Chrysoprase have often been confused with the highly valuable imperial jade stone. Meaning of ChrysopraseĪn unusual and unique name, Chrysoprase is formed from two originally Greek words, ‘chrysos’, meaning gold or yellow, and the Greek ‘prason’, meaning leek, as a reference to the golden, pale green color of the stone. Later, in the Victorian period, Chrysoprase again became popular as a stone for cameos, and was used to contrast with pearls and for creating cabochons. Alexander the Great is said to have favored Chrysoprase, and is reputed to have always worn a girdle into battle that was embedded with a bright chrysoprase stone, which he regarded as a precious talisman. The Greeks, Romans and Egyptians were drawn to its verdant hues, and used it to carve ornamental objects as well as to make jewelry, seals and signets. History of Chrysoprase stoneĬhrysoprase is one of the oldest semi-precious stones used by mankind.
It is the presence of nickel which gives Chrysoprase its spirited, spring green color. However, Chrysoprase in fact comes in a variety of green shades, from a pale, lemony absinthe, through vibrant aquamarine, to a deep moss color. Very fine, highly saturated chrysoprase gems have often been misidentified as imperial jade. The vivid ‘granny smith’ color of Chrysoprase is striking, and stones of this lively, bright green hue are the most valuable. Otherwise known as the ‘stone of Venus’, Chrysoprase is associated with joy, optimism and success. Its hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale means it is also often used to make beautiful carvings.
Due to its unique range of colors, from golden yellow to leafy green, it is a popular gemstone for jewelry. Chrysoprase ColorĬhrysoprase is a semi-precious gemstone of the quartz family.
Fashioned into intricately shaped earrings or pendants, chrysoprase makes an enchanting gift for loved ones or friends. The beautiful sea greens of Chrysoprase reflect the calming colors of water and the sea, and as such chrysoprase crystals are said to bring peaceful vibes and promote a restful environment. Today chrysoprase is still popular as a decorative stone, and fine examples are often carved into unique shapes, and used to adorn the home or office. A remarkably colorful stone, it was a favorite of Alexander the Great, and has long been used in carving and masonry, most notably by Frederick II, King of Prussia, who used it to decorate the halls of his favorite palace, at Potsdam, near Berlin. The incredible spectrum of apple-greens, lemon yellows and vivid aquamarines that characterize the semi-precious gemstone chrysoprase are instantly recognizable, though few could match this gem to its rather cumbersome name.
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