Prasiolite

Gemstone : Prasiolite Common misnomers include Green Amethyst, Green Quartz, and Vermarine. Birthstone Month : Prasiolite is not associated with any particular birthstone month. Zodiac : Prasiolite is not associated with any particular zodiac sign. Chemical Symbol : SiO2 Chemical Make-up : Prasiolite is a Silicon Dioxide and a macrocrystalline Quartz variety. It's coloration is caused by Iron content and heat-treatment. History & Lore : There is not 100% agreement regarding the exact origins of the name Quartz, but the two most widely accepted opinions are that the word Quartz is derived from the Greek 'krystallos', meaning “ice”, or the German 'quarz'. The name Prasiolite is derived from the Greek 'prason', meaning “leek”, and 'lithos', meaning “stone”. Some of the earliest primitive tools fashioned by man some 2.5 million years ago, and discovered in the Omo valley in Ethiopia were made of Quartz. It is believed that Quartz was used because of its hardness and isotropic brittleness that made the fashioning of the tools relatively easy. Chipped flint projectile points used for fire-making have been found on Mousterian sites in western Europe that date back around 40,000 years.

In addition to its use in tool-making, certain varieties of Quartz were used for divination. Spherical Quartz rock crystals were often shaped into crystal balls and used for disease diagnosis and awareness of events occurring in distant places. More recently there was major production of synthetic Quartz during World War II. This synthetic Quartz was used to supply crystals for radios. Today, Quartz is not only used for gemstone purposes, but also as a raw chemical ingredient in the manufacturing of abrasives, cements, concrete, porcelain, glass, and many other industrial materials. Because of its piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties, Quartz is commonly used in the production of watches, clocks, computers, and radios. Prasiolite is believed to facilitate bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual aspects of life. It is also believed to attract prosperity by strengthening the mind, emotions and will. Availability : Prasiolite is a relatively rare, inexpensive gemstone. Its popularity has recently been growing as it is being offered more and more to gem collectors and connoisseurs. Sources : The correct Amethyst and yellow Quartz stones needed for the heat-treatment process to create Prasiolite come mostly from the Montezuma deposit in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Some sources have also stated that the correct Amethyst needed is also being mined in Arizona. Evaluation : Prasiolite is rated at 7 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness making it ideal for everyday wear and is suitable for virtually all jewelry applications. Prasiolite is a translucent gemstone displaying colors ranging from a pale yellow-green to deeper shades of green. Prasiolite is often mistaken for more expensive gemstones such as Green Beryl, Peridot, and Tourmaline. Large, eye-clean stones with strong color saturation will naturally be at the pinnacle of the value spectrum. Common Cuts : Prasiolite can be found cut into most of the commonly recognized shapes / cuts. Routine Enhancements : Prasiolite does not occur naturally. Instead, it is produced by heat-treating Amethyst and yellow Quartz. Care & Cleaning : Prasiolite are best cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. As with most gemstones, Prasiolite should be kept away from household chemicals and from prolonged exposure to extremes of heat as this can cause damage or permanent changes in coloration. In addition to this, prolonged exposure to sunlight is best avoided as the color may fade. Ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are generally safe but should be used with caution. Prasiolite jewelry should be kept in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items in order to avoid scratching.