Chrysoprase

Chrysoprase (or chrysophrase) is a variety of chalcedony and can be found in Australia, Germany, Russia, Arizona, USA and Brazil. Poland probably had the biggest Chrysoprase deposits in the world at one time, but most of this precious stone now comes from Australia. The stone is normally apple-green but can vary to a deep green due to trace amounts of nickel compounds. Its colour and appearance is so close to jade that Chrysoprase is sometimes marketed as “Australian Jade”. Chrysoprase has a long history as a gemstone, with the Romans making cameos from the stone. Frederick the Great of Prussia is said to have had a walking stick with a solid Chrysoprase handle. Chrysoprase jewellery it is an excellent choice, with the stone sitting well in white gold or white metal settings.