mineral
Chrysoprase
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with nickel impurities
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Apple-green, leek-green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Apple-green, leek-green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Chrysoprase in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Apple-green, leek-green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6
Formation & geological history
A form of chalcedony that occurs as a result of the deep weathering or lateritization of nickeliferous serpentinites or other ultramafic rocks. Commonly found in saprolite zones.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also highly valued by mineral collectors for its unique green hue.
Geological facts
Chrysoprase is the most valuable variety of chalcedony. Its color comes from nickel oxide, unlike emerald which gets its green from chromium or vanadium.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its distinct minty or apple-green color and waxy appearance. Often found in Queensland, Australia, and Brazil. Collectors look for uniform color and translucency.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous