Chrysoprase
Image: <b><a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:F._Riedelio" title="User:F. Riedelio">Friedrich Haag</a></b> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameChrysoprase
Chemical FormulaSiO2
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Streak ColorWhite
CleavageNone
FractureConchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity2.58
Colorsapple-green, yellowish-green
TransparencyTranslucent
Type LocalityAustralia (Queensland), Brazil, Russia, USA
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental objects, collector
Associated Mineralsserpentine, nickel minerals
Description
Chrysoprase is a translucent, apple-green to yellowish-green variety of chalcedony, often seen as tumbled stones or cabochons. Its vibrant color is due to trace amounts of nickel.
Geological Context
It forms as a secondary mineral in nickel-rich serpentinites and other ultramafic rocks, typically found in veins and nodules resulting from weathering processes.
