Chrysoprase is a chalcedony, which is a form of silica that contains minute crystals and small quantities of a specific nickel compound, willemseite. It is a part of the quartz group and is distinguished by its apple green color which can vary to darker greens. The nickel compounds give it its color, and it has a hardness of 6 to 7, making it suitable for use as a gemstone. Chrysoprase is found in Australia, Germany, the Ural Mountains, the United States (California and Arizona), and Brazil. Polished chrysoprase can resemble turquoise or jade. It is the rarest stone of the chalcedony group.
Chrysoprase is used today in ornaments and jewelry of all types. Peter Carl Faberge incorporated chrysoprase in some of his most beautiful creations. Chrysoprase was used as a medicinal and spiritual therapy during the Middle Ages to reduce internal pain, strengthen vision, and increase dexterity. Spiritually, it was also used to as a mental health treatment and as an aid to increasing powers of concentration and meditation. Chrysoprase is also thought to calm the nerves, prevent depression, and increase fertility. Other health uses for chrysoprase include the breaking of negative life cycles, promoting inner growth, and inspiring hope. Chrysoprase is associated with the Gemini, Libra, and Taurus signs and the sacral, solar plexus, heart, and throat chakras. It has a numerology vibration of 3.
