Peruvian Chrysoprase Braid Bracelet

Description

Despite the name and frequent confusion, this stone is actually a rare form of a Chrysoprase that is found only in Peru. It is an opaque, blue-green gemstone that displays a variety of designs due to the oxidization of copper, iron, and manganese. Peruvian Turquoise/Chrysoprase was commonly incorporated into the ceremonial dress of early, native Incas who considered it a sacred stone. Peruvian Turquoise/Chrysoprase hails from the famous Lilly Mine, located some 200 km South of the capital Lima and 40 km east of Pisco Umay. The mine opened in the early 90s and does not represent a large portion of total gem production.

Chrysoprase is a cryptocrystalline quartz, meaning its crystals are so small that they are indistinguishable under normal magnification. The light apple, mint and deep green colors come from trace amounts of nickle present during the formation process. Chrysoprase takes it’s name from the Greek word ‘chrysos’, meaning gold, and ‘prasos’, meaning leek. Discovered in Marlborough in the early 1900s and commercially mined since the 1960s. Possesses a soft translucence and prized for its bright, even color and texture.