Rectangular chrome chalcedony (mtorolite) cabochon in 5 sizes: 19×14×5 mm (no. 32), 22×13×5 mm (no. 36), 23×20×4 mm (no. 40), 29×22×5 mm (no. 41) and 30×23×5 mm (no. 43). Intense to emerald green due to native chromium oxides in the rock, untreated. Flat back, gently domed face. For silversmithing in 925 silver and wire wrap.
Item details
| Mineral |
Chrome Chalcedony — mtorolite (SiO₂ with Cr³⁺) |
| Dimensions |
5 sizes: 19×14, 22×13, 23×20, 29×22, 30×23 mm · thickness ~4–5 mm (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and back |
Rounded rectangular, polished flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6–7 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Zimbabwe (lapidary wholesale market) |
| Treatment |
Untreated. Color from native chromium oxides in the rock. |
| Item type |
Unique piece selected by the lapidary |
This particular piece
Mtorolite gets its intense green from trivalent chromium incorporated into the chalcedony structure during mineral formation, not from subsequent treatment. This distinguishes it from other dyed or heat-treated green stones: the color is stable, uniformly deep, and does not fade over time.
The rounded rectangular shape is especially suitable for mtorolite: the flat face displays the green in its full saturation, and the clean geometry facilitates the design of modern settings and signet rings. The five available sizes cover everything from discreet profile rings (no. 32) to statement pendants (no. 43).
What setting it works for
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925 silver signet ring — The rectangular shape and intense green make this stone a natural candidate for modern signet rings or statement rings with a closed bezel.
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Geometric pendants — Medium and large sizes (no. 40, no. 41, no. 43) as the centerpiece of a minimalist silver pendant.
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Wire wrap — The flat back and rectangular shape facilitate structured wrapping; the intense green contrasts well with silver and copper.
Chrome chalcedony in lapidary tradition
Mtorolite takes its name from the Mtoroshanga River in Zimbabwe, where it has been primarily mined since the 1950s. Its emerald green color has made it an appreciated lapidary alternative to faceted emerald — without its fragility and with an equally intense green. In crystal tradition, green chalcedony is associated with growth and vitality.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine chrome chalcedony
Authentic mtorolite has an intense and uniform green throughout the mass — not just on the surface. Under magnification, the microcrystalline texture of chalcedony can be seen. Green glass or dyed chalcedony has surface color that may appear more concentrated in cracks; authentic mtorolite does not have this defect.
Frequently asked questions
Is the green natural or treated?
Natural. Color due to trivalent chromium oxides incorporated into the mineral's structure during its formation. No subsequent color treatment.
How do I choose the size?
Each reference number (no. 32, no. 36, no. 40, no. 41, no. 43) corresponds to a unique piece with the indicated dimensions. Note the number in the order notes.
What setting do you recommend?
Closed bezel in 925 silver for rings. For pendants, bezel or prongs that frame the rectangle. The geometric shape facilitates minimalist straight-line settings.
Are the dimensions exact?
They have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm as they are free-form, hand-cut pieces.
How do I care for it?
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Chalcedony resists everyday wear well; avoid direct impacts on the edge. See jewelry care.
See chrome chalcedony in other sizes: cabochon collection. Explore green minerals: all stones.
