Chrysoprase (also known as Australian Jade) is one of the Star Signs for Gemini. Corresponding Astrological Sign: Libra
The gemstone Chrysoprase (often mistaken for Imperial jadeite) is an opalescent apple green colored variety of chalcedony (quartz). Most green stones owe their color to chromium or vanadium, but chrysoprase derives its color from the nickel content. It is the rarest of the chalcedony group. 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.
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.
Metaphysical:
Grace, compassion, acceptance. Helps to balance energies. Gentle, soothing, friendly, spiritual protection. Attracts good luck in new enterprises. Brings abundance and new friends. Prevents depression. Increases grace and equilibrium. Lessens envy and anger. Increases fertility. A stone for gardeners, Chrysoprase allows communication with plant energies and devas, the earth and the spiritual aspects of nature.
Chakras: Heart and Solar Plexus
Composition: Chalcedony, a variety of quartz (silicon dioxide)
Mohs-Scale Hardness: 7
Grace, compassion, acceptance. Helps to balance energies. Gentle, soothing, friendly, spiritual protection. Attracts good luck in new enterprises. Brings abundance and new friends. Prevents depression. Increases grace and equilibrium. Lessens envy and anger. Increases fertility. A stone for gardeners, Chrysoprase allows communication with plant energies and devas, the earth and the spiritual aspects of nature.
Chakras: Heart and Solar Plexus
Composition: Chalcedony, a variety of quartz (silicon dioxide)
Mohs-Scale Hardness: 7