Chrysoprase is a gemstone variety of chalcedony – a cryptocrystalline form of silica – which also contains small quantities of nickel.
The origin of the gemstone’s name is Greek and means “golden leek.” Ranging in color from apple-green to deep green, Chrysoprase is semi-opaque to opaque and is considered one of rarest and most precious gems known.
With a Mohs scale of hardness of 6-7, the jewelry industry uses Chrysoprase, which is processing-friendly, to create bracelets, beads and various pieces of jewelry.
Chrysoprase was popular in ancient times, when it was used to craft jewelry and various ornaments by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians.
Chrysoprase can be found in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Tanzania, India, Brazil, the United States, Russia and Germany.
