There is terminological confusion associated with the chrysolite stone, so before talking about it, you need to understand all its many names. In Russia it is often called demantoid, in Italy - vesuvian, in Germany - peridot, in Brazil - tourmaline. None of them can be called truthful. In modern mineralogy, chrysolite is a type of olivine. This is the only synonym that can be used. All of the above are other minerals.
In Greek, peridot means “golden stone.” This is not a completely accurate description of the mineral, since golden crystals are rare. The name was given either because of the great love for the stone and its high cost, or because of the yellow olive hue, which is noticeable in daylight. Under artificial light, it darkens, loses its yellow color, and the greenery thickens. Thanks to this feature, it was nicknamed the evening emerald.
Historians and archaeologists believe that peridot has been used as jewelry for 6,000 years. Cleopatra loved him. In her possession were rich chrysolite mines. In those days, there was a belief that this stone should be mined only at night, since it was invisible during the day. Echoes of this superstition reached medieval Europe, where it was believed that a crystal placed on the cheek could make a person invisible. Those sentenced to death took advantage of this, thus trying to deceive the executioner. But there is no evidence that this was successful.
Peridot was highly valued by the Turkish sultans. They decorated their turbans with stones, embroidered their clothes, and set them into rings. Evidence of this is the “Golden Throne”, which belonged to the Ottoman Sultan. The throne is decorated with 955 chrysolites. Now it is exhibited in one of the museums in Istanbul.
It is mentioned in the Bible as one of the stones in the breastplate of the high priest. And now this stone is used to trim the clothes of clergy, decorate icon frames, church utensils and crosses.
During the Crusades, stone poured into Europe along with the wars. There was a legend among them that the amulet increased potency. They say that the wives were incredibly happy to see their exhausted and tired husbands. A similar rumor was started in France in the 60s of the 19th century. This helped jewelers sell a lot of jewelry to men who dreamed of being passionate and tireless lovers.
When talking about chrysolite, we cannot mention Emperor Nero. Over the years, the great ruler began to lose his sight. Doctors recommended that he look at green more often to cure the disease. The emperor's bedroom was covered with green material, he began to wear green clothes, and the arena for gladiator fights was covered with malachite chips. Nero also carried with him a monocle carved from a green mineral. At that time it was believed that it was an emerald. However, modern scientists have determined that this is a perfectly polished chrysolite of high transparency. Nero watched cruel sights through it, claiming that blood looked more aesthetically pleasing in the green light. There is a version that it is the chrysolite that is kept in the Armory.
Physico-chemical properties of chrysolite
Chrysolite is a silicate of iron and magnesium. The green color of the stone is given by iron, and the shine is given by chrome and nickel. Depending on the amount and depth of penetration of impurities, the intensity, saturation and uniformity of color of the stone may vary.
The price of the stone depends on the color saturation. The brighter and deeper it is, the more expensive it is. One of the rarest varieties is peridot with cat's eye and star effect.
The properties of the stone are described in the table:
| Class | Silicates |
| Mohs hardness scale | 6,5 — 7 |
| Density | 3, 27 — 3,37 |
| Color | All shades of green: pistachio, olive, grassy and others |
| Shine | Wax |
| Transparency | Transparent, translucent |
| Fragility | Fragile |
| Degree of refraction | 1,654 — 1,690 |
Peridots are not uncommon. They are distributed all over the world. They are found in rocks, kimberlite pipes, volcanic formations, river sediments and even meteorites. However, the best samples are mined in Sri Lanka, India, Argentina, Australia, and Kenya.
Varieties
This variety of chalcedony is valued not for its fancy design or intricate pattern, but for its color.
Jewelers “sort” chrysoprase not by variety, but by quality:
- Highest grade . The color is bright green, saturated. Minimum inclusions. Transparent to a depth of 5 cm.
- First-class stone . There are discolored areas on the body of the stone. Transparency no more than 2 cm. Color green, uniform.
- Ornamental chrysoprase . Color ranges from yellow-green to bluish-green. Spotted color, heterogeneous structure. Inclusions of manganese oxides are often found. These dendrites can decorate the stone, but the price is definitely reduced. Transparent in places.
Expert opinion
Semenishcheva Polina
Specialist in mineralogy. Graduated from St. Petersburg Mining University.
Note : “lemon chrysoprase” is not actually chrysoprase. This is nickel-containing magnesite containing chalcedony impurities.
Chrysoprase, peridot, chrysoberyl, chrysocolla
All these stones have the same root and at first glance it seems that these are related minerals or synonyms of the same word. This statement is wrong. "Chrysos" means "gold" in Greek. The Greeks so called minerals that at least vaguely resembled gold in their color or shine. Hence the number of similar words.
- peridot is transparent, its color is similar to bottle glass. Ceylonese businessmen manage to sell sea-worn glass to tourists under the guise of a gem;
- chrysoprase is a matte, translucent green stone, in the depths of which you can see a silky golden sheen;
- chrysoberyl is a rare stone from the oxide class. It has two varieties: alexandrite and cymophane. The first is famous for its property of changing color depending on the lighting. In artificial light, alexandrite turns red. Tsimofan is less known. This is a stone with a cat's eye effect;
- Chrysocolla is a silicate of copper and aluminum. This is an ornamental stone of blue-green color. Its name literally translates as golden glue. Chrysocolla was originally used as a source of copper for soldering gold jewelry.
Deposits where the best minerals are mined
The richest deposits of chrysoprase were discovered in the depths of Australia (in Queensland). Successful industrial mining of the mineral is carried out in Poland, Romania, Germany, Pakistan, Brazil, the USA (in California and Arizona) and in the Russian Federation (in the Urals and the Karaganda region). It is believed that Ural chrysoprase is characterized by fairly high transparency and can be easily polished, which means that it is suitable not only for creating handicrafts, but also for the production of jewelry masterpieces.
Healing properties of the stone
Official medicine does not confirm the presence of medicinal properties. However, for a long time it has been used to treat all types of nervous disorders and improve mental activity. The mineral establishes a relationship between the mind and feelings.
Medieval knights and French lovers were not far from the truth. It truly increases libido and ignites passion in both men and women.
Modern lithotherapists attribute healing properties to the mineral:
- relieves pain in muscles and joints;
- treats diseases associated with urology and digestion;
- fights infections;
- regulates the functioning of the central nervous system;
- improves vision;
- normalizes the functioning of the endocrine system;
- treats stuttering;
- normalizes hormonal levels;
- restores the body after serious illnesses and operations;
- facilitates childbirth;
- normalizes sleep, relieves nightmares;
- soothes headaches.
Chrysolite is weak as a primary healing agent. However, it enhances the effect of drugs, which allows you to reduce the dose of drugs and shorten the course. This way there will be fewer side effects with the same healing effect.
As part of ointments, chrysolite treats skin diseases.
Areas of application
Pliny wrote that chrysoprase crystals “are of such size that even drinking vessels in the form of a shuttle are made from it.”
- Back in the 14th century, plates of semi-precious stones - chrysoprase, amethyst, jasper - appeared in interior decoration. They can be seen in Karlštejn Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. There, in Prague Castle, the Chapel of St. Wenceslas is decorated with mosaics with chrysoprase. Such decorations are called “Carlstein mosaics”.
- Ornamental varieties are used by stone cutters. Therefore, to decorate the interior, you can buy boxes, vases, ashtrays, and writing instruments. But these things are quite expensive.
- Better stones are used in making jewelry.
Peridot in astrology
Chrysolite talismans are suitable for any zodiac sign. With his good emanations he will help everyone who needs him. The effect of the amulet depends on the character of the person. He especially favors Pisces, Leos, and Virgos. Aquarius, Cancer, and Scorpio should use the stone with caution.
- Pisces under the influence of chrysolite will gain self-confidence, increase self-esteem, and begin to make balanced, bold, meaningful decisions. The amulet will help avoid conflict situations;
- Leos are born leaders. They love to be the center of attention and control people. The crystal will help to reveal these qualities to the fullest and gain recognition;
- Virgos are distinguished by excessive pedantry, practicality and demandingness towards others. The talisman will help this zodiac sign gain tolerance. It will also develop intelligence, memory and attention. With him, the virgins will be attractive to others;
- Libra will improve relationships in the family, find harmony and tranquility;
- Taurus is a stubborn and selfish zodiac sign. Giving in in a dispute is a big problem for them. The amulet is needed to become compliant and generous;
- Gemini is a controversial zodiac sign. They themselves don't know what they want. Peridot will be a sedative and will make the twins balanced and calm;
- Aries are ardent and passionate people, true representatives of the fire element. This may turn out to be a test both for Aries himself and for those around him. Chrysolite will give them prudence, calmness, and perseverance.
Mining locations
Rare, emerald green agate native to Austria. This stone is also present on the territory of Kazakhstan. The color palette is very different, there is a low level of transparency (up to 2 cm).
On topic: Shattuckite stone: physical and magical properties
The mineral is found in smaller quantities in the USA, Western Siberia, Brazil, or India. Previously, Poland was known as the source of chrysoprase in Europe. Unfortunately, there is no semi-precious stone there now.
According to geologists, these specimens are cut in a special way. As a result of this process, the mineral becomes similar to an emerald.
Magical properties of chrysolite
The magical properties of chrysolite depend on its quality. The brighter and more transparent the crystal, the higher its effect.
The main magical property of the stone is to establish a relationship between the world of people and the world of spirits. Esotericists love to wear this amulet. The mineral absorbs information from the world and transmits it to the owner. At the same time, only positive information reaches the person. All negativity that can cause harm is retained by the stone. Thus, the decoration will help in solving difficult life problems. Many generations of ancestors who watch over a person from heaven will begin to help in this. The main thing is to understand the polyphony. A weak person will begin to be torn by doubts, he will not be able to concentrate on making a decision.
To protect the house from fire, interior decorations are used. In order for the effectiveness of the amulet to become higher, you need to pay attention to it more often and take care of it. In magical rituals, large praying stones set in gold are used.
The amulet works only in the hands of spiritualized people with a clear mind and good intentions. Down-to-earth people, immersed in earthly problems, are immune to the beauty and energy of the stone. They are too drunk with their worries to tune in to the subtle soul of the stone.
In Feng Shui, chrysolite is a symbol of prosperity and wealth. The product with the stone must be displayed in the most visible place. This will bring prosperity to the family and improve relationships between household members.
Peridot relieves negative emotions. It neutralizes stress, anger, jealousy, and improves relationships with other people.
Also, the chrysolite stone has magical properties:
- attracts good luck;
- cleanses energy;
- pacifies;
- lifts the spirit during difficult life trials;
- helps to find lost things;
- strengthens friendship;
- eliminates envy;
- helps to find positive moments in life, revives optimism;
- improves intuition;
- helps to win in disputes and litigation;
- protects against rash actions and decisions;
- removes enemies and dangers;
- awakens compassion.
There are a number of beliefs around chrysolite:
- he tunes in to the energy of his owner, gets used to him. In this regard, it should not be given as a gift. The new owner will quickly lose or break the talisman;
- a gold ring with chrysolite is worn on the left hand. It attracts good luck, and the frame preserves it;
- chrysolite is a talisman for magicians, financiers and trade workers;
- peridot preserves love. The spouses, having exchanged rings with him, will remain together forever;
- figurines in the shape of fish attract wealth;
- amulets must be purchased on the 28th day of each lunar month.
Peridot is ideal for meditation, promotes concentration and brings peace.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
When choosing crystals, you need to take into account compatibility by zodiac sign. Astrologers consider chrysoprase one of the friendliest gems. However, he also has his favorites.
The mineral is most suitable for Aquarius. Representatives of this zodiac constellation are considered to be quite creative people. Chrysoprase provides them with powerful support in this area.
The stone helps people who have pure thoughts. People who are starting a scam or fraud should not expect help from the crystal.
The mineral is of great importance for Taurus according to the horoscope. By nature, representatives of this sign are very slow. Thanks to the use of chrysoprase jewelry, it becomes faster and relieves fears. The products also promote emancipation and help achieve your goals.
An amulet with this stone is suitable for Aquarius.
Capricorns, Gemini, Cancer, Virgo and Pisces have rather weak energy. Therefore, they require constant replenishment. Its functions can be performed by an amulet with chrysoprase. The green mineral will share its energy and protect from negative influences.
At the same time, Leos, Aries, Sagittarius and Scorpios themselves are distinguished by their violent energy. Therefore, such a stone may even become superfluous for them.
Products with chrysolite
In the Canary Islands, Tenerife, Hawaii, Mexico and the USA, tourists are offered jewelry with local gems. These countries actually have deposits of chrysolite. However, you can easily buy a fake in tourist shops. Large jewelry chains and self-respecting jewelers most often do not sell counterfeits, since this gemstone is not an expensive rarity and there is no point in counterfeiting it.
Most often, plastic and glass are passed off as chrysolite. It is possible to distinguish them from natural stone in several ways:
- The hardness of chrysolite is 7 units, which is greater than that of glass. It turns out that the stone cannot be scratched by glass. Plastic will not withstand such a test;
- a hot needle will melt the plastic, but the stone will remain unharmed;
- The density of the stone is higher, which means it is heavier;
- The stone has poor thermal conductivity. If you touch it, it will remain cool for some time;
- In nature, large chrysolites are rare. A large stone at a low price should arouse suspicion;
- the shine of natural peridot is oily and greasy;
- A mineral of natural origin is rarely ideal. It often contains microcracks and small inclusions that can be seen with a regular magnifying glass. The fake is clean and perfect.
When using jewelry with peridot, you must remember that it is a fragile mineral, so it must be protected from bumps and falls. Store jewelry in an individual box with soft walls or in a bag. Chrysolite is resistant to acids and alkalis. However, while cleaning, it is better to remove the ring or wear gloves, since exposure to aggressive cleaning agents and abrasives can deprive the stone of its shine and transparency. The same applies to cosmetics. Creams, lipsticks, perfumes stain and spoil the stone. It does not fade in the sun, so it can be worn all the time, and not just on holidays.
Jewelry that is slightly dirty is cleaned in running water without the use of household chemicals and hard brushes. Afterwards wipe with a soft dry cloth. It is better to remove severe stains with special solutions or contact a jeweler.
How to distinguish from a fake
Chrysoprases are often falsified. To distinguish a natural mineral from a fake, it is worth considering many features:
- Natural stone always contains small inclusions - these can be irregularities or bubbles. If the seller offers a perfect copy, most likely it is a fake.
- Natural stone is heavy and does not conduct heat easily. To determine the naturalness of a gem, you need to hold it in your hands for several minutes. Real crystal will stay cool.
- Natural chrysoprase is small in size. If the product has impressive dimensions, it is most likely a fake.
You can suspect an imitation due to its unnaturally bright color or too low price. If you have any doubts, you need to ask the seller for documents.
Chrysoprase is a unique mineral that has healing and magical properties. To reveal the properties of the crystal, it is important to wear it correctly.
Historical origins
Before buying an attractive piece of jewelry with greenish chrysoprase, it is better to know its history, the secrets that it has protected for centuries. It is generally accepted that the legendary Alexander the Great brought widespread fame, human love and increased attention to the gem. The commander always and everywhere preferred to carry the hundredth stone with him, considering it a powerful amulet and talisman.
There is also a beautiful magical legend associated with the stone. This talisman was always next to Macedonian, but literally the day before his death he disappeared. Some say that a snake stole it while the commander was swimming in the lake; there is also a version according to which the amulet was lost by accident. Of course, it is impossible to verify the authenticity of such facts, but no one forbids believing in a beautiful legend.
If we discard all the myths and beautiful fairy tales, then we can turn to archaeological facts. Scientists found the first specimens of jewelry during excavations of Egyptian settlements and cities. Chrysoprase was known and in Greece the stone was very loved there and was considered a real symbol of good luck, prosperity and well-being. In Ancient Egypt and Greece, beautiful statues were made from gemstones and used for mosaic panels.
King Frederick the Great had a special love for stone. He had a unique ring inlaid with chrysoprase. By order of the monarch, jewelry craftsmen made a crown decorated with green minerals. The cut that was used for such work later began to be called Friederian.
There was a new surge of love for chrysoprase already in the 18th century. Jewelers began to actively use the gem to create jewelry. Rich people could afford to have their houses lined with natural green chrysoprase.
The mosaic decoration of the Chapel of St. Wenceslas in the Czech Republic still fascinates tourists with its chrysoprase tints.
