Chrysoprase

Chrysoprase gemstone

Chrysoprase, also known as “Chrysoprasus” or “Chrysophrase,” is one of the varieties of the Chalcedony gemstone (which is a cryptocrystalline form of silica) and contains little quantities of nickel. They are usually found in an apple-green color but may vary to darker or deeper shades of green as well. The darker chrysoprase varieties are also called “prase”!

Nanosital is an optically transparent polycristalline material that is formed by the crystallization of glass with corresponding chemical composition and has higher physical and chemical properties than the original glass.

Nanosital is one of glass-ceramic materials, which are known for more than 50 years and have a wide range of compositions and applications. As a result a multi-component high temperature composition on the base of two main oxides Ð SiO2 and Al2O3 Ð was obtained. It is well-known that the above-mentioned oxides are key components of most natural gemstones. The rest of nanosital’s components are picked to approximate the maximum required optical characteristics as well as density and hardness. Our technology allows us to vary components of composition quite widely. As a result nanosital that is absolutely identical to its natural counterpart can be produced each time.

Nanosital does not contain any health hazardous contaminants (lead, arsenum, cadmium)

It does not change color when heated. Can be used in wax casting

Main characteristics of Nanosital

1. Nanosital’s specific gravity index is very close to that of the most valuable gemstones such as topaz, sapphire, ruby and aquamarine.
2. Nanosital and the optical properties of the most popular color gemstones are almost similar. Nanosital’s main feature is its lack of an unnaturally strong lustre, which is typical of cubic zirconia, wherein the play of colors remains attractive.
3. Nanosital’s hardness (7 on Mohs scale) guarantees jewellery durability without the loss of its original look. The Nanosital hardness index (7) is higher than glass (5), but lower than one of the hardest materials Ð corundum (9).
4. Its high melting point allows the use of any colored Nanosital in lost-wax casting.
5. Color and transparency. Its wide color range, full correspondence to natural analogue, perfect optical properties, total transparency, and absence of inner defects makes Nanosital the best, readily available rough jewellery material on the market.

Physical properties of Chrysoprase

• Crystal habitat: Microcrystalline aggregates
• Color: Olive to apple green
• Cleavage: None
• Tenacity: Brittle
• Hardness as per Mohs scale: 6-7
• Luster: Waxy, greasy
• Fracture: Conchoidal, granular
• Specific gravity: 2.651-2.91
• Dispersion: None
• Diapheneity: Almost opaque to nearly transparent
• Ultraviolet fluorescence: None

Is Chrysoprase highly expensive?

This gemstone is the most valuable and the rarest stone in the chalcedony quartz group. Chrysoprase is one of the few gemstones that is colored with nickel traces.
Due to their rarity, chrysoprase stones tend to be quite valuable and expensive, even though these stones are not precious gemstones like diamonds. Several chrysoprase rings are available as designer jewelry items, and therefore they have immense value as heirlooms.

Chrysoprase vs. Emeralds

Due to their similar colors, Chrysoprase and emeralds’ identification can sometimes lead to confusion. However, they are obviously not the same!

While emerald gets its green color owing to the presence of chromium, Chrysoprase, on the other hand, is green due to the traces of nickel compounds found in it in the form of tiny inclusions.

Streaks in white are present in emeralds, while Chrysoprase has no streaks. Chrysoprase ranks 6.5-7 in the Mohs hardness scale, while emeralds register 7.5-8. Emeralds have a vitreous luster, while Chrysoprase can be vitreous to waxy.

Chrysoprase jewelry

Every type of jewelry piece available under the sun can be made using Chrysoprase. Right from bracelets, pendants, rings, earrings, brooches, and necklaces, jewelry enthusiasts can opt for any and every design when it comes to Chrysoprase.

These gemstones look simple yet classy and elegant and therefore are a sought-after stone in the world of jewels. You wouldn’t be surprised, but these days, Chrysoprase is used extensively for making engagement rings, thanks to its unique color. Since there is no cleavage in chrysoprase gemstones, it is stronger and less likely to break.

How to clean and maintain Chrysoprase

The best method to clean these gemstones is to use a soft toothbrush dipped in a little warm and soapy water. Do not use harsh chemicals and use mild detergents only as the stone’s porous nature would easily soak chemicals and can ruin the look of the stone.

You do not even have to resort to steam or ultrasonic cleaners to keep the chrysoprase stones clean. It is easy to maintain. It is also advisable to keep the stone away from excessive light and heat as it can cause the color of the stone to fade.

At Gems N Gems, we host a variety of stones that are not only authentic and made with precision but are offered at affordable rates too.

If you want to purchase chrysoprase gemstones, what are you waiting for? Choose us today!