Chrysoprase is a Chalcedony variety of Quartz. This means that it has no discernable crystalline stucture, having formed from a colloidal suspension of Silicate which has settled from aqueous solution followed by the subsequent loss of water. The name comes from the Greek words Chrysos Parson meaning gold leek. Whilst the reference to leek is obvious from the vivid green colour, the allusion to gold is more obscure, unless it refers to the often bright luster.

Description: A nugget of chrysoprase showing several colour variations. The majorty of the specimen is the typical deep green. This is semi transparent allowing green light to emerge when lit from behind. Throughout the chrysoprase are numerous inclusions of yellow-brown agate. To set the whole specimen off, the rear side is covered by a thin deposit of white quartz, which produces a very nice aesthetic contrast.

Location: Great Dyke, Zimbabwe.