Chrysoprase is a green variety of chalcedony which is cryptocrystalline quartz. Its green colour is due to the presence of nickel impurities in the form of oxides or silicates of nickel. It can vary from a greenish yellow to a clear apple green. Imitations of chrysoprase gemstones are made by the staining of agate.
The Chrysoprase gemstone bead is generally opaque but, better quality chrysoprase gemstone can also be transluscent. Good quality chrysoprase gemstone can look a lot like high grade jadeite but chemically they are poles apart. Chrysoprase gemstone is a gorgeous gemstone bead in its own right, but dont get fooled into believing that it is jade.
