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Chrysoprase. The “Cinderella” of the chalcedony family of cryptocrystalline quartz gemstones. Not as famous or well known as some of her sisters: carnelian, tiger-eye, and onyx – but far more rare and beautiful. Chrysoprase is rarely asked to the dance of most hometown, independent retail jewelry stores, but when she is present in the showcases, she outshines all of her sisters and most every other translucent gemstone at the ball. The whole affair makes for a romantic and very profitable Story of Chrysoprase.
Formation
Most of the world’s finest chrysoprase is found in close proximity to nickel mines, one of the world’s most important industrial metals. As you see here, the nickel is leeched into hydrothermal solutions composed of silicon oxide (SiO2) which cools in veins around the nickel mine area to form the green colored chalcedony quartz, colored by the impurity of nickel in the mix.
Qualities
As you see below, chrysoprase can occur in a wide variety of translucency and colors. The color spectrum will be overwhelmingly in the green colors, and transparency ranging from translucent to virtually opaque. (minerals.net)
Finest Sources
Although chrysoprase is found in many locations around the world, the Candala Mine deposit in the region just south of Marlborough, Australia is considered the finest in the world based on intense green colors and very high degree of translucency. Below is a look at a piece of Candela Chrysoprase from the ISG Student Reference Collection, donated to us by the former owners of that mine. The reason for the high quality is due to the rare geological formation where it is found. At this location, when the original chrysoprase deposit formed, it was covered over by yet another layer of silicate that protected it for eons from weathering and the effects of exposure to outside elements. This left the Candala Chrysoprase in pristine condition for millions of years, until mining began a few years ago. As a result, the intense colors and beautiful translucency were preserved for us to appreciate and enjoy today. Brown material is part of the silicon cap that protected the chrysoprase formation.
Candala Chrysoprase Carvings
Frequently Asked Questions about Chrysoprase
What color is it? A beautiful pastel green color, as shown in the images above.
What is the story behind this gemstone? This is the most rare and most expensive of the chalcedony family of gemstones from the quartz group. It is very rare to find in larger sizes and offers a unique translucent green color unlike anything else on the market.
Can I wear it every day? Absolutely. Chrysoprase is one of the best-wearing gemstones.
Is it expensive? Generally, yes, compared to other Chalcedony family members. Due to its rarity, it is not only difficult to find, but larger sizes in fine colors will be even more difficult and, therefore, more valuable.
Is it a birthstone? No.
What do I need to know before going shopping? Do not expect to find this gemstone in just any jewelry store. You will need to find a store that deals in many exotic gemstones and/or one that has a qualified gemologist on staff who can ensure you are getting the real thing. It may take a while for your local jeweler to find you some nice stones to choose from. But be patient. It will be worth the wait.
Gemological Properties
Source: Australia, Poland, and many other locations.
Chemical: SiO2 with nickel trace elements for color.
Formation: Found in nickel ore deposits from which it obtains its coloring element.
Crystal System: Trigonal
RI: 1.54 – 1.55
Birefringence: .009
Optic Character: U+
Specific Gravity: 2.64 +-
Hardness: 7
Transparency: Tl to Opaque
Special Identifying Properties and Tests: Color and RI should be diagnostic for experienced gemologists
Synthetics: None known at this time.
Imitations: Many possible
Chrysoprase is one of many types of gemstones that are all too often overlooked by the mainstream jewelry industry. For the jeweler who can think outside the box, there are major revenue streams just waiting for you. These wonderful and affordable gemstones will set you apart in your market and build customer loyalty.
Visit the ISG website to learn more about our world-class programs in gemology and jewelry appraisal at our low tuition rates.
Formation
Most of the world’s finest chrysoprase is found in close proximity to nickel mines, one of the world’s most important industrial metals. As you see here, the nickel is leeched into hydrothermal solutions composed of silicon oxide (SiO2) which cools in veins around the nickel mine area to form the green colored chalcedony quartz, colored by the impurity of nickel in the mix.
Qualities
As you see below, chrysoprase can occur in a wide variety of translucency and colors. The color spectrum will be overwhelmingly in the green colors, and transparency ranging from translucent to virtually opaque. (minerals.net)
Finest Sources
Although chrysoprase is found in many locations around the world, the Candala Mine deposit in the region just south of Marlborough, Australia is considered the finest in the world based on intense green colors and very high degree of translucency. Below is a look at a piece of Candela Chrysoprase from the ISG Student Reference Collection, donated to us by the former owners of that mine. The reason for the high quality is due to the rare geological formation where it is found. At this location, when the original chrysoprase deposit formed, it was covered over by yet another layer of silicate that protected it for eons from weathering and the effects of exposure to outside elements. This left the Candala Chrysoprase in pristine condition for millions of years, until mining began a few years ago. As a result, the intense colors and beautiful translucency were preserved for us to appreciate and enjoy today. Brown material is part of the silicon cap that protected the chrysoprase formation.
Candala Chrysoprase Carvings
