For the better part of this century Australia has been the worlds principal producer of chrysoprase. Little is known of early production history other than that it has been generally inadequate to satisfy the world demand for quality chrysoprase.

Now, with the reopening of the Yerilla Chrysoprase mines (in Western Australia) by Chrysoprase Mines of Australia, choice gem green chrysoprase and carving material is now readily available.

Yerilla Chrysoprase is exceptional for the quality of its gem material. Yerilla Chrysoprase ranges in colour from the finest apple green which is easily mistaken for jadeite to a dense green material eminently suitable for carving.

Yerilla Chrysoprase is particularly well suited for jewellery and carving. It is very hard (6.5 7 on Mohs scale) and tough, the colour uniform. The hard ironstone matrix offers a nice contrast to the lush green gem.

What might be crafted from Yerilla Chrysoprase rough is limited only by an artist s imagination.

The inherent toughness of the material makes it a very forgiving stone and allows for small carvings as well as thin work that transmits ambient light beautifully, bringing out the vibrant opalescent glow of Yerilla Chrysoprase. Yerilla Chrysoprase is able to take an outstanding polish and a mirror finish is achievable by the competent polisher.

When carving, the brown chert matrix can be left attached to the chrysoprase to provide colour contrast. This type of matrix polishes to a fine red - brown finish and provides an earthy balance to the chrysoprase green.

The Yerilla Chrysoprase mine also produces quantities of yellow and green coloured magnesite in varying sizes. Not as hard as chrysoprase, the material is nonetheless siliceous and similar to marble in finish when cut and polished. Magnesite - with its bright colours - is an ideal material for jewellery, sculptural and architectural projects. Large pieces are available for slabbing (tiles, tables, wall plaques) or carving (elephants and Buddha's are very popular).