Prasiolite

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale green to leek-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed through the natural or artificial heating of amethyst or citrine in volcanic rocks and pegmatites. Natural prasiolite is extremely rare and typically results from secondary heat-induced metamorphism within a quartz vein.

Uses & Applications

Primary use is in the jewelry industry for faceted gemstones, rings, and pendants. It is also used by mineral collectors as a display specimen.

Geological Facts

Most prasiolite on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. Natural occurrences are incredibly rare, first discovered in a small mine in Brazil in the 1950s.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pale green transparency and quartz-like hardness (scratches glass). Commonly found in Brazil, Namibia, and Poland. Natural specimens are identified by their specific inclusions and pale, uneven coloration.

Identified on: 4/26/2026

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