Read all about Chrysoprase and different kinds of rocks and minerals here at the Stone Goddess.

Chrysoprase is a silicon dioxide mineral, microcrystalline quartz, and the apple green variety of chalcedony. It is formed at low temperatures near the earth's surface, and is found in a variety of mineral environments, and Serpentinite veins. The gem's yellow-green or nickel oxides cause apple green color. This green is similar to some jade, variscite, prehnite or smithsonite.

The name Chrysoprase is from the Greek chrysos and prason for "golden leek" or "golden green". The ancient Greeks and Romans, who carved it into intaglios, signet rings and brooches, valued the stone. It was often associated with the Goddess Venus, and was a talisman to protect the wearer from the evil eye, curses and envy. Alexander the Great was said to always wear Chrysoprase into battles. The Egyptians adorned themselves with Chrysoprase, combined with Lapis Lazuli and other gems, as early as 1500 BC It was also thought to be a stone in the High Priest's Breastplate, and a foundation stone for the New Jerusalem.

Old Romanian folk belief said the gem would enable the wearer to understand the language of lizards! Hildegard Von Bingen considered it a detoxifier, and a calming stone for anger. It was a popular stone in 14th century Europe. Chrysoprase was also the favorite stone of England's Queen Anne. It remained popular there for years, through Queen Victoria's reign.

Important historical sources of the stone were Poland and Czechoslovakia. Modern sources are Australia, Brazil, California and Oregon in the U.S., Africa and India. It was also recently found in Serbia and Kazakhstan. Today the gem is used for handsome jewelry and beautifully detailed carvings.

Metaphysical Properties: The cool green energy of Chrysoprase gently calms the heart It eases emotional issues, and allows unconscious images and thoughts to be understood so healing may occur and peace and harmony will prevail. It is an aid in seeing our truth, releasing old thought patterns, and inspires new ideas and creativity and use of hidden talents. It brings a sense of peace during times of chaos and change. A stone to attract good luck in new enterprises, and to bring abundance and new friends. It lessens envy and anger, eases anxiety and allows for a sedate and tranquil heart. It may soothe heart palpitations. It helps in self-trust, so one may be truly independent and content with oneself. It creates serenity and feelings of security, and an angelic connection to divine source.

A stone for gardeners, Chrysoprase allows communication with plant energies and devas, the earth and the spiritual aspects of nature. Its color is like sunlight through summer leaves, and reminds us of the cycles of birth, growth and death in nature and our own lives, and lets us gain strength and wisdom by understanding these cycles.

Chakras: Heart and Solar Plexus.