Apple green chrysoprase cabochon, available in 3 specific pieces: GC9 (34×20 mm, teardrop), GC10 (26×21 mm, rectangular) and GC12 (25×20 mm, rectangular).
Piece details
| Mineral |
Chrysoprase (green chalcedony with nickel, cryptocrystalline SiO₂) |
| Dimensions |
GC9: 34×20×6 mm · GC10: 26×21×6 mm · GC12: 25×20×6 mm (±0.5 mm in any dimension) |
| Shape and back |
GC9 teardrop shape; GC10 and GC12 rectangular; flat back on all |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — suitable for rings, pendants, and earrings; we recommend closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Material acquired in lapidary wholesale market; probable origin Australia, Brazil or Tanzania |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Piece type |
3 individual numbered pieces (GC9, GC10, GC12) — select from the dropdown |
This particular piece
Chrysoprase is the most valued variety of chalcedony in the lapidary market, precisely because a uniform saturated green is difficult to find in natural untreated minerals.
The 6 mm thickness in all three formats is important for bezel work: it allows for building a closed box with sufficient wall without reducing the visible surface of the stone.
How chrysoprase gets its green color
Chrysoprase is a chalcedony colored by nickel silicates —mainly garnierite (Ni,Mg)₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄— which infiltrate the microfibrous silica during lateral weathering processes of ultramafic rocks rich in olivine.
What mounting it works for
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925 silver rings with closed bezel — with 6.5–7 Mohs, chrysoprase withstands the wear of a frequently worn ring. The apple green on silver creates a combination with high visual readability; the closed bezel protects the corners in rectangular formats.
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925 silver pendants — the teardrop shape (GC9) fits particularly well as a pendant; the lower point naturally orients the piece and the weight (6 mm deep) gives presence without being excessive.
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Wire wrap with silver or copper — hardness and flat back facilitate the work. The green of chrysoprase contrasts well with both silver (cool on cool) and copper (warm-cool contrast).
Chrysoprase in lapidary tradition
Chrysoprase was valued in Antiquity as the "purest" green stone: the Greeks used it in intaglios and seals, and it is mentioned in Revelation (21:20) as one of the twelve stones of the walls of the New Jerusalem.
In crystal tradition, chrysoprase is associated with mental clarity and prosperity. The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine chrysoprase
Genuine chrysoprase has a uniform, opaque green with no significant transparency, although high-quality pieces may be slightly translucent at thin edges.
Frequently asked questions
What makes chrysoprase green?
The green color is produced by nickel silicates (mainly garnierite) homogeneously distributed in the cryptocrystalline silica network.
How to distinguish chrysoprase from variscite?
Variscite is more bluish (green-turquoise) and softer (Mohs 3.5–4.5) than chrysoprase (apple-green, Mohs 6.5–7).
Has it received any treatment?
No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Is it suitable for everyday rings?
Yes. With 6.5–7 Mohs, it is one of the most durable colored stones for ring use.
Can chrysoprase fade?
With prolonged and direct exposure to sunlight, chrysoprase may lose some color saturation in the very long term.
How to care for it?
Clean with a slightly damp soft cloth or dry. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and aggressive cleaning products. Store away from prolonged direct sunlight. Consult our jewelry and stone care guide.
More about chalcedony and its varieties: properties and uses of chrysoprase. See also: cabochons for jewelry · handmade silver rings.
