prasiolite

Prasiolite is a green variety of quartz. Its distinctive green color is typically pale to medium, often described as a lime or olive green. The coloration is due to the presence of iron impurities within the crystal structure. While natural prasiolite exists, it is relatively rare. Most prasiolite available on the market is produced by heat treating amethyst or citrine, which are other varieties of quartz. This heat treatment process causes a color change in the iron impurities, resulting in the green hue. Prasiolite is often used in jewelry and ornamental objects. It is a relatively hard gemstone, measuring 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it durable for everyday wear. Its refractive index is also characteristic of quartz. When identifying prasiolite, gemologists may look for its specific color, clarity, and optical properties, and may also conduct tests to determine if it has undergone heat treatment.