Mineral Species: Quartz var. Chrysoprase
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Chemical Name: Silicon Dioxide
Mineral Class: Tectosilicate
Mineral Notes: 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" and "Parson", meaning gold and 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 bright luster.
Description: A surprisingly heavy nodule of angular Chrysoprase. The mineral shows the striking green colour and has an almost resinous quality. Throughout the body of the Chrysoprase are scattered small crystals of highly crystalline white quartz. The Chrysoprase is reflective and under a good light and is therefore a good display specimen. The specimen could be cut and polished if desired.
Location: Szklary, Poland.
