Glittering stones >> Semi Precious Stones >> Chrysoprase

Semi Precious Stone Chrysoprase

Chrysoprase (also Chrysoprase) is a gemstone variety of chalcedony, (fibrous form of quartz) which contains small quantities of nickel. Its color is normally apple-green, but varies from deep green. It is cryptocrystalline that means that it is composed of crystals so fine that they may not be seen as distinct particles under normal magnification. This sets it apart from rock crystal, amethyst, citrine, and also the other varieties of crystalline quartz which are basically transparent and also formed from easily recognized six-sided crystals. Other members of the cryptocrystalline quartz family include agate, carnelian, and also a form of onyx. Unlike many other non-transparent members of the quartz family, it is the color is Chrysoprase, rather than any other pattern of markings, that makes it desirable. The word Chrysoprase comes from the Greek chrysos meaning 'gold' and parson, meaning 'leek'.

Historical Facts of Chrysoprase

Refractive Index	1.544 - 1.553
Chemical Composition	SIO2
Hardness	6 - 8
Density	2.65 - 2.66
Crystal Group	Hexagonal
Ocurrence	Queensland, Western Australia, Germany, Poland, Russia, Arizona, California, and also Brazil