Prasiolite
About
Prasiolite, also known as green quartz, is a rare green variety of quartz. Its pale to medium green hue is typically achieved through heat treatment or irradiation of amethyst or yellow quartz. Natural prasiolite is exceptionally rare and primarily found in small deposits in Brazil.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Prasiolite is not a traditional birthstone but is often associated with emotional growth, balance, and the zodiac sign Pisces.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of prasiolite is harmony and spiritual growth. Prasiolite is thought to connect the heart and mind, encouraging compassion, self-acceptance, and clarity. Its grounding yet uplifting energy is believed to foster spiritual growth while promoting a strong connection to the Earth.
Facts
Heat-Treated Origins: Most prasiolite in the market is created by heating amethyst or yellow quartz, with natural green quartz being extremely rare.
Major Sources: The majority of prasiolite is sourced from Brazil, with smaller amounts found in Poland and Canada.
Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 7, prasiolite is durable and suitable for most types of jewellery.
Unique Hue: Its delicate green colour provides a fresh alternative to more common green gemstones like peridot and emerald.
Science
Mineral: Quartz
Crystal System: Trigonal
Chemistry: SiO₂
Colour: Pale to medium green
Refractive Index: 1.544 to 1.553
Birefringence: 0.009
Specific Gravity: 2.65
Mohs Hardness: 7
TreatmentsMost prasiolite is created by heat-treating amethyst or yellow quartz. This is typically sold as mint or green amethyst. Natural prasiolite is rare, with only a few deposits in Brazil producing naturally green quartz.
SyntheticsSynthetic prasiolite is uncommon, as treated quartz is abundant and widely accepted in the jewellery market. However, synthetic quartz can be created in laboratories and may be sold as prasiolite.
ImitationsDyed quartz and glass are commonly used to imitate prasiolite. These imitations may mimic the green colour but lack the natural crystal structure of authentic quartz.
similar materialsGreen Fluorite: Often confused with prasiolite but softer and typically more vibrant in colour.
Peridot: A naturally green gemstone with a higher refractive index and a more olive-green hue.