chrysoprase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Technical (Gemology/Jewellery), Literary
Quick answer
What does “chrysoprase” mean?
A green variety of chalcedony (a type of quartz), colored by nickel compounds.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A green variety of chalcedony (a type of quartz), colored by nickel compounds.
A semi-precious gemstone prized in jewellery and decorative arts for its apple-green colour; historically considered a stone of hope and good fortune.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation differs slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
Equally rare and technical in both varieties. May carry slightly more historical/literary connotations in British English due to its use in older texts.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both, with near-identical usage limited to specialist fields.
Grammar
How to Use “chrysoprase” in a Sentence
[be] made of chrysoprase[be] set with chrysoprasecarve [object] from chrysopraseVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chrysoprase” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The chrysoprase inlay gleamed in the Tudor light.
American English
- She admired the chrysoprase beads on the necklace.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the gemstone trade and high-end jewellery retail.
Academic
Used in geology, mineralogy, archaeology, and art history papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used. Might be encountered in a novel or a museum description.
Technical
Standard term in gemology for this specific variety of chalcedony.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chrysoprase”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chrysoprase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chrysoprase”
- Misspelling: 'chrysoprase' (common), 'chrysophrase'. Misidentifying it as jade or emerald.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Chrysoprase is a variety of quartz (chalcedony), while jade refers to two different minerals: nephrite and jadeite. They are different in composition and hardness.
Significant deposits are found in Australia, Germany, Poland, Russia, and the USA (Arizona).
It is relatively durable but can fade in prolonged direct sunlight. Clean with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
It was used in ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian jewellery and carvings. It is one of the stones mentioned in the Bible (in the foundation of the New Jerusalem) and was a favourite of Frederick the Great of Prussia.
A green variety of chalcedony (a type of quartz), colored by nickel compounds.
Chrysoprase is usually formal, technical (gemology/jewellery), literary in register.
Chrysoprase: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪsəpreɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪsəˌpreɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. Too specific a term for idiomatic use.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'chrysanthemum' (a flower) and 'prase' (a type of green quartz). A 'golden-green precious stone' (from Greek 'chrysos' gold + 'prason' leek).
Conceptual Metaphor
VIBRANT GREEN IS CHRYSOPRASE (e.g., 'Her eyes were like chips of chrysoprase').
Practice
Quiz
Chrysoprase is primarily valued for its: