Chrysoprase is a green variety of Chalcedony which is a type of Quartz. The color ranges from pale lemon green to a deeper fresh vivid green, the color is caused by nickel oxide inclusions.
Chrysoprase has been known to man since ancient times. The word Chrysoprase comes from Greek, Chrsyo means gold and praise means leek. During ancient times it was valued and formed into cameos and intaglios by the Greeks and Romans. Ancient Egyptians also saw the value of this fine gemstone and it was part of the decorations that adorned the pharaohs.
During the Middle Ages, Europe used Chrysoprase in jewelry and it was extremely prized and valued. It was mined in Silesia which is now the present-day Czech Republic until the supplies were exhausted. Peter Carl Faberge created many works using this valuable gemstone.
Besides it being used as ornamental jewelry, it was said to have many mystical and medicinal properties. For instance, during the Middle Ages, it was used to reduce internal pain, as well as to strengthen vision. It was also used to mend broken hearts and help one concentrate or meditate. For astrology aficionados, Chrysoprase is given as a gift to Geminis, Libras, and Cancers.
Chrysoprase is the most prized type of quartz and includes the attributes of nickel which causes its beautiful color. Usually, Chrysoprase is formed by deterioration or lateralization of nickeliferous serpentinites, which means that quartz stone with nickel deposits gently corrodes and deteriorates causing this exotic gemstone. Usually, Chrysoprase can be found in deep veins that contain magnesite or iron and silica rocks.
While Chrysoprase is rare, it is found in many parts of the world including Queensland, Germany, the Ural Mountains in Russia, Brazil, and in the United States, specifically Arizona and California.
Chrysoprase Metaphysical Properties
The frequency of Chrysoprase is connected to the solar plexus and heart chakras. It stimulates the heart chakra by helping one to stay focused within one’s heart center so that one can give and receive “love” on all levels.
Chrysoprase helps one to release emotional fear-based issues and to “forgive” and thus “heal” emotional issues within relationships including those with oneself.
This lovely green-colored crystal helps one connect to the Spirits and Devas of Nature and Mother Earth and to feel the connection to “All That Is”.
By activating the solar plexus chakra this form of Chalcedony helps one with one’s “will” and aligns it with one’s “heart”.
The energy of Chrysoprase is very healing and can aid with physical regeneration caused by degenerative issues.
Associated Chakras
- Solar Plexus
- Heart
Physical Ailment
- Tissue Regeneration
Emotional Issue
- Forgiveness
Spiritual Connection
- Connection to Natures Spirits
- Connection to the Divine
- Heart-centered Awareness