Chrysoprase - knowledge base, jewelry
Properties of chrysoprase,physiological effects, zodiac signs and chrysoprase jewelry.
Chrysoprase is a greenish chalcedony variety.
It is the most valuable stone of the chalcedony group. The microscopic quartz fibres are arranged in a radial pattern. Nickel is responsible for its colour. The larger pieces have a slightly uneven colour distribution and are sometimes cracked. The colour changes with exposure to sunlight or heat, so special care must be taken when, for example, soldering is required when making a reservation.
Occurs mostly in serpentinite rocks and in the weathering of nickel ore deposits. Chrysoprase can easily be confused with jadeite, variscite and artificially green-stained chalcedony.
Chemical and physical properties of chrysoprase:
Formula:
SiO2 silicon dioxide
Crystal system:
trigonal
Crystal system:
quartz- chalcedony
Color:
shades of green
Streak:
white
Transparency:
low translucent, opaque
Cleavage:
none
Fracture:
uneven
Mohs scale hardeness:
6,5 – 7,0
Specific gravity:
2,58 – 2,64 g/cm³
Major metaphysical healing properties attributed to chrysoprase:
It has a detoxifying effect, reduces high blood pressure, regulates hormone balance, increases fertility, treats rheumatism and gout, reduces back pain, muscle spasms, helps the absorption of vitamin C, increases creativity, self-confidence.
Zodiacs associated with chrysoprase gemstones:
Chrysoprase is the gemstone of the zodiac sign of Gemini.
Click here to read about the general characteristics of horoscopes!
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Use of chrysoprase
Its use is mostly in cabochon cutting for jewellery and applied arts. In the past, chrysoprase gemstones were also used as interior architectural decorative elements, but this was very expensive.
Occurence of chrysoprase
Brazil, India, Kazakhstan, Russia, Madagascar, Australia, USA, Tanzania, Zimbabwe.