CHRYSOPRASE - PHYSICAL & METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Chrysoprase is part of group of quartz crystals known as chalcedony and is considered to be one of the most valuable stones found in this group. The name Chrysoprase comes from the Greek "chrysos" meaning gold and "prason" meaning leek. The Romans, Egyptians and Greeks used it in jewelry and other ornaments because of its opalescent green color. It derives this green color from the presence of nickel whereas most other stones that are green in color contain vanadium or chromium. The ancients ascribed the virtues of emerald to it, though in a lesser degree. They believed it lost its colour when in contact with poison, and was a cordial and stimulant.