May Birthstone- Chrysoprase: Stone of Venus

May Birthstone- Chrysoprase: Stone of Venus

April 30, 2020 12am Nature's Treasures Team

Although Emerald is the most well known birthstone for May, Chrysoprase is an alternative stone that is gaining popularity worldwide. Known in ancient times as the Stone of Venus it seems a fitting choice considering the month opens up with Taurus, an astrological sign ruled by Venus. Learn more about Chrysoprase's traits, history & metaphysical properties here.

GENERAL TRAITS

Chrysoprase is a translucent chalcedony which ranges in color from a light mint to a vibrant apple green. It is considered to be the rarest and most valuable member of the chalcedony family, with darker green specimens being most prized . The green color comes from Pimelite, a nickel silicate hydroxide.

The name given is also related to its color since it is from the Greek words Chrysoprasos and Prason meaning "Golden Green". Chrysoprase is sometimes called Golden Prase and Australian Jade.

MINES

Chrysoprase has been found in ancient Greece since 400 B.C and has been mined in Poland since the 14th century. In modern days, Chrysoprase is mined in the United States (Arizona, California and Oregon), Brazil, Russia (Ural Mountain area) , Australia, Poland, Tanzania and Madagascar.

The highest quality Chrysoprase comes from Queensland, Australia where it is called Australian Jade. Usually one must be careful of excessively exposing Chrysoprase to the sun as most varieties will fade to a plain, white chalcedony. This is not true of the Australian Chrysoprase, which seems to be impervious to fading.

HISTORY & FOLKLORE

Associated with the Goddess Venus (possibly because of its apple green color which is the fruit of Venus) Chrysoprase was used to make seals, signets, and jewelry in her honor. In Medieval times, Chrysoprase was often carved into a shape of a bull, which is the zodiac sign of Taurus. For these reasons, Chrysoprase has been associated with the astrological sign of Taurus and identified as a talisman for this sign ruled by Venus.

Diane Morgan in Gemlore: Ancient Secrets and Modern Myths from the Stone Age to the Rock Age explains, “Chrysoprase has been called the 'maiden' of the mineral clan, due to its youthful, green color, and is thus associated with children and indeed all young life, both plant and animal. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all prized it and it has been in use for cameos and intaglios since ancient times.” Her book also alludes to Chrysoprase helping to connect with Vesta, the Roman Fire Goddess of hearth, home and family.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Chrysoprase is known to bring love, compassion, hope, happiness, fertility, and abundance into one's life. Judy Hall in The Crystal Bible also tells us Chrysoprase is “said by the ancients to promote love of truth. Chrysoprase also promotes hope and gives personal insights; it draws out talents and stimulates creativity.”

Additionally, Melody in Love is in the Earth states “This mineral is useful for balancing the yin-yang energy and for aligning the chakras with the ethereal plane. It activates, opens and energizes the heart chakra, bringing the energy necessary to the physical body, through the loving energy of the the heart.” She also says it can help to heal a broken heart.

ENHANCEMENTS

Robert Simmons in The Book of Stones informs us that “Chrysoprase harmonizes with Ajoite, Danburite, Lepidolite, Amblygonite, Phenacite, Azeztulite, Kunzite, and Morganite. Kunzite and Morganite bring forth the loving aspects of the heart. Phenacite and Azeztulite open inner vision, so one may clearly see the spiritual visions of the heart hearts wisdom and connection to the Heart of All. Lepidolite and Amblygonite emphasize the relaxing and stress-relieving properties of Chrysoprase, while Danburite completes the linkage of the heart with the crown chakra. Combining Chrysoprase with Strombolite adds an element of humor to its compassionate insights. Moldavite works especially well with Chrysoprase for strengthening the heart chakra and for bringing a sense of being at one with the accelerated dharmic flow of one's inner and outer life.”

Happy Birthday to all our May friends! The beautiful apple green Chrysoprase is symbolic of joy, spring and youth. Fortunate you to have the Stone of Venus as your very own birthstone. Wear it as jewelry, carry a tumbled stone or just reflect on the balancing and joyful heart nature of your Chrysoprase.