CHRYSOPRASE (JEWELRY)

Chrysoprase is a beautiful, apple-green variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz, prized for its vivid color and translucency. Its color comes from trace amounts of nickel, which give it its unique green hue, ranging from pale mint to a rich, vibrant green. Unlike other green gemstones, such as emerald or jade, chrysoprase has a softer, more calming color, often with a slight translucence that adds depth and allure.

This gemstone typically forms in botryoidal (grape-like) masses or as nodules within weathered nickel-rich rocks, particularly in areas with lateritic soils. It is commonly cut into cabochons or polished into beads for jewelry, as it is durable yet soft enough to work with, ranking around 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale.