Prasiolite
$275.00
Item number:
1
Prasiolite From California USA 8.0 CT
Prasiolite, also known as green quartz, is a rare gemstone in nature. In California, natural deposits have been identified near Susanville, where volcanic heat transformed amethyst in solidified lava cavities into the distinct green color. However, most commercially available prasiolite is heat-treated amethyst.
Key Facts About Prasiolite
- What it is: A pale, leek-green to dark sage variety of quartz.
- Etymology: Named from the Greek words prason (leek) and lithos (stone).
- Hardness: Measures 7 on the Mohs scale, making it excellent for everyday jewelry (like rings or pendants).
- Terminology: Often incorrectly marketed as "green amethyst." While this is a popular trade name, the Federal Trade Commission considers this term deceptive because true amethyst is defined by its purple color.
Geology of California Prasiolite
The California deposit near Susanville is a well-documented source for natural prasiolite.
- Formation: The crystals were naturally created when a hotter lava flow passed over an existing amethyst deposit.
- Associated Minerals: The stones are typically found in exposed metavolcanic rocks alongside unheated amethyst and citrine.
While natural specimens from this region are highly collectible for rockhounds, most prasiolite sold in retail settings is heat-treated amethyst sourced from international locations like Brazil.