Curved or angular concentric banding in translucent white, gray, amber, red, and blue-gray tones, as well as dendritic...
Chemical formula
SiO₂ (Microcrystalline fibrous silica with trace iron/manganese oxides)
Chalcedony / Microcrystalline Quartz • Quartz (Chalcedony Aggregate)
Chrysoprase
Vivid apple green to mint green; unlike emerald or chrome chalcedony, its color comes from trace nickel rather than chromium.
SiO₂ + Ni²⁺ (Nickel-bearing phyllosilicate/pimelite inclusions)Mohs 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Chalcedony / Microcrystalline Quartz |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Quartz (Chalcedony Aggregate) |
| Gemological Variety | Chrysoprase |
| Chemical Composition | SiO₂ + Ni²⁺ (Nickel-bearing phyllosilicate/pimelite inclusions) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal (Microcrystalline aggregate) |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 2.58 – 2.64 |
| Refractive Index | 1.530 – 1.540 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Vivid apple green to mint green; unlike emerald or chrome chalcedony, its color comes from trace nickel rather than chromium.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Forms in lateritic weathering profiles above nickel-bearing serpentinite and ultramafic rocks (Australia, Tanzania, Kazakhstan).
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
The rarest and most valuable variety of translucent single-color chalcedony, often compared visually to fine imperial jade.
Fine Jewelry Applications
High-domed cabochons, bezel-set rings, and ear drops.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Natural nickel-colored chrysoprase must be distinguished from artificially green-dyed chalcedony using spectroscopic examination.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Avoid prolonged exposure to dry heat or intense sunlight; store away from hot lamps and clean with cool soapy water.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Prized by Alexander the Great and Frederick the Great; associated with spring renewal, joy, and optimism.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Chalcedony / Microcrystalline Quartz
Related Entries
Translucent warm orange, fiery sunset red, to brownish-red (sard).
Chemical formula
SiO₂ + Fe₂O₃ (Hematite/Iron Oxide sub-microscopic inclusions)
Deep forest-green semitranslucent to opaque chalcedony speckled with vivid crimson spots of iron oxide (hematite).
Chemical formula
SiO₂ + Chlorite/Amphibole (green) and Hematite (red spots)