The Chrysoprase
gemstones, rough or rolled, in beads, bracelets, pendants, etc.

Origins and symbols

While the name Chrysoprase - meaning "Golden Leek", from the Greek khrusos (gold) and prason(leek) - refers to the stone's shades of green, ranging from apple green to deep emerald green and yellow-green hues, its symbolic value is revealed by the powers attributed to it in ancient times.

The leek itself was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to soothe sore throats and clear the voice. Beneficial for eloquence, its simple shape was a guarantee of discreet and lucid strength.

Chrysoprase, the golden leek linked to terrestrial Aphrodite, was associated with the awakening of the spirit, nature and the fertile forces of renewal.

Meanings and virtues in lithotherapy

In lithotherapy, Chrysoprase carries a springtime energy. It is the source of the blossoming of life, the vital force of change and renewal.

The Rebirth Stone symbolizes the beginning of a new cycle of spirit, present and alert, soothed by nature's wisdom after a harsh winter.

For its energies are those of nature, awakening with enthusiasm and joy. A stone of luck and success in lithotherapy, it is ideal for new beginnings.

Its impetus, as necessary as it is invigorating, seems to preserve the enchantment of the world: its strength, working to open our eyes to the marvelous side of change, is also a reminder of the virtues of introspection as well as openness for spiritual growth.

Its soothing effect can give you a sense of security so that you can use all your energies to focus on your projects, ideas and goals.

Mother and child

This stone accompanies open hearts.

During pregnancy and childbirth, she is like a breath of tenderness. She is the tribute that honors the woman who is the source of life. She is your doula, your support for a space of serenity and trust in your potential and that of nature.

Traditionally, stone is reputed to help create or consolidate the mother-child bond.

Physical effects

Although the physical effects of Chrysoprase have not been scientifically proven, it is traditionally considered a detoxifier.

In the Middle Ages, Chrysoprase was used to detect poisons. Today, it is used to help eliminate toxins from the body. It is said to contribute to the proper functioning of the liver and digestive system, and to help regulate high blood pressure.

How is Chrysoprase used in lithotherapy?

Wear a Chrysoprase when you're going through a period of change. As jewelry or in your pocket, it can bring you good luck.

For a spring detox, you can do a Chrysoprase water cure (simply place a Chrysoprase in your carafe).

Looking for spring energies in your home? Has a situation stagnated for too long? Diffuse Chrysoprase water with a spray in every room of your home or workplace.

According to tradition, in the event of a liver attack, lie down with a Chrysoprase placed on the painful spot.

Keep a Chrysoprase with you after your period to accompany the beautiful life force of the pre-ovulatory phase. Or when you're in your premenstrual phase and find yourself in a situation where you need to be dynamic and enthusiastic.

Where to place a Chrysoprase?

In your home, a Chrysoprase will bring energies of youth, freshness, renewal and Love. It will bring nature into your home.

It's ideal for children's bedrooms, playrooms, offices or living rooms.

In the kitchen, it can make you want to eat healthier and more in tune with nature and the seasons.

How to wear it

To reap its benefits, it's best to wear it directly against the skin for long periods. You can also drink the water in which it has been soaked.

Which complementary gemstones to use in lithotherapy?

Through synergy of forces, Chrysoprase can amplify its effects on spiritual balance when combined with other stones and crystals:

• Green Aventurine or Aventurine Quartz shares with Chrysoprase a closeness to nature and renewal, as well as a reputation for bringing good luck and prosperity. It can accompany quests for personal growth
• Citrine in all its forms will bring enthusiasm, creativity and joie de vivre, supporting the Chrysoprase symbol to release emotional blockages.
• Pink Rock Crystal for its gentleness and healing of affects. It can work with Chrysoprase on the heart chakra to soothe wounds of the mind.

Notes on the mineralogy of Chrysoprase

A member of the microcrystalline quartz group, Chrysoprase is a gem variety of chalcedony, with a waxy to vitreous and translucent to opaque appearance.

Nickel inclusions in this silicon dioxide explain the variety of its characteristic green tones. Yellow-green hues are sometimes called lemon Chrysoprase.

Rather hard: on the Mohs scale, its hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7.

Its best-known deposits are in Germany, Australia, the United States and Madagascar.