Gemstone Glossary

Prasiolite

Prasiolite is a confusing gem as it is traded under a variety of names and can easily be mistaken for other gem types. Prasiolite, also known as Vermarine, is (technically speaking) quite simply Green Quartz.


Quartz - Silicon dioxide (SiO2) - is the most common mineral on the face of the Earth. It is found in nearly every geological environment and is a component of almost every rock type. It is also the most varied in terms of varieties, colors and forms. Some macrocrystalline (large crystal) varieties are well known and popular as ornamental stones and as gemstones. These include: Amethyst, Citrine, Ametrine, Rose Quartz and Prasiolite. All forms of quartz are piezoelectric, making for important applications in electronics. Tourmaline is the only other gemstone that possesses this property.

Prasiolite is formed by heating certain types of quartz in the presence of iron. Prasiolite is sometimes confused with Green Beryl, Peridot (olivine) and Tourmaline, all gem types that are considerably more expensive than Prasiolite.

Prasiolite has a Refractive Index of 1.55 and Specific Gravity of 2.65, with hardness of 7 on the Moh’s Scale. Most commercial Prasiolite is found in Brazil and Arizona (USA).

Intensity of color and fine clarity are the most important aspects to consider when purchasing Prasiolite. Color variations from a pale yellow-green to deeper, more lustrous greens are available. A tough stone displaying beautiful colors, Prasiolite is ideal for everyday wear and, as an inexpensive gem variety, is perfect for a wide variety of applications.