Chrysoprase: properties and virtues

Often overshadowed by better-known stones, chrysoprase is a hidden treasure in the world of gemstones. With its green color ranging from translucent to milky, sometimes veined with lighter shades or brown, it's an exquisite choice for handmade jewelry, bringing a touch of natural freshness.
Get inspired by our natural stone jewelry tutorials and create unique jewelry with our chrysoprase beads and components!

Where does the name Chrysoprase come from?

The name of this natural stone (formerly part of the ancient category of semi-precious stones) comes from the Greek "chrysos", meaning gold, and "prason", meaning leek, referring to its characteristic green color.
In Roman mythology, it was often associated with Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Hence its other name,"Venus Stone"!

Chrysoprase stone in history

Chrysoprase is one of the oldest gemstones used by man for jewelry and decorative objects. Known since antiquity, it was prized for its vibrant green color. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used it to make seals and amulets.
The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder mentions it in his work "Historie naturelle". A passage in the Bible also describes its presence in the foundations of the wall of New Jerusalem.

Legend has it that the Macedonian king Alexander the Great always wore one on his belt. He believed that chrysoprase could give him the foresight to make the right strategic decisions and always ensure victory on the battlefield. Unfortunately, one day, his amulet fell into a river he was crossing. He saw this as a bad omen and never won another battle.

In the Middle Ages, this green stone was believed to have magical powers. One belief was that it could make people invisible if placed in the mouth.

But it was in Victorian times that it gained in popularity, often adorning the jewelry of the period with its color reminiscent of the new growth of spring.
Emperor Frederick II of Prussia even chose it to decorate his palace and furnishings.

What color is chrysoprase?

Chrysoprase is a natural stone with a brilliant green color, ranging from apple green to deep green, sometimes with touches of yellow or brown. It is sometimes whitish.
This natural stone is unique among gemstones, offering a translucency that gives it depth and inner light.
Because of its color, it is sometimes confused with jadeite.

WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES OF CHRYSOPRASE?

This natural stone is a variety of chalcedony, and is relatively hard, ranging from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Its composition makes it ideal for jewelry-making.
Its density varies between 2.6 and 2.7 g/cm³.

WHERE TO FIND CHRYSOPRASE?

The main deposits are found in Australia, Brazil, Russia, India, Madagascar, the United States, South Africa and Tanzania.

What are the virtues of chrysoprase?

In lithotherapy, Chrysoprase is considered a stone of renewal and relaxation. It promotes understanding and tolerance, while bringing a sense of security and self-confidence. It calms anger and reduces negative feelings.

Which chakra for chrysoprase? Chrysoprase is often associated with the heart chakra, encouraging love and emotional healing.

It's the stone of Gemini, Cancer, Libra and Pisces.

Please note: our gemstones are not sold for lithotherapy. Natural stones are no substitute for medical expertise or treatment.

How to recharge chrysoprase?

To rid chrysoprase of any negative energy it may have accumulated, it needs to be cleaned, purified and recharged.
To purify it, soak it in demineralized water for a few hours. To recharge, simply leave it in the sun for a few hours.

How to wear chrysoprase

Chrysoprase goes well with both gold and silver metals. For a bold look, combine it with Gold Filled or Gold Plated. For understated elegance, opt for925 Silver orStainless Steel.

Which stone to match with chrysoprase? For lithotherapists, this green stone pairs perfectly with gemstones of the same color, such asgreen aventurine, serpentine or peridot. But it can also be beneficial with other stones:

• With rose quartz: the combination with chrysoprase can promote compassion and an open heart.
• Withamethyst: in combination with chrysoprase, it can help achieve a state of deep serenity.
• With citrine: amplifies positive energy.
• With lapis lazuli to deepen introspection and self-understanding.

Beware, however, of combining it with high-energy stones such asobsidian, or stimulating stones like carnelian or red jasper. These combinations may be too intense for the gentle energy of chrysoprase.