Chrysoprase. Little known, Much loved.

There are few stones that have grabbed my eye and my interest the way that chrysoprase has done. This vibrant green gem was prized by Cleopatra and Alexander the great. It found its way around Elizabeth Taylor's neck and yet is still completely unknown to many people. 

A normal chrysoprase interaction for me involves a new client seeing this gem in one of my pieces in the case.  After some "Wow!" "Gorgeous!!" and "Incredible!!"  The first question "Is that Jade?" is followed by me telling them what it is and we go back and forth for a few rounds of 
"Chrysoprase."  
"Chrystopase?"
"Chrys-O-Prase"
"Chrysophrase?"
"Chrys like chrysanthemum. O like oh my goodness. And Prase like Praise the lord we are on the last leg of learning how to say this gems name."

It is a green like nothing else. The color haunts me and I find myself unable to walk past a good unmounted piece without stopping to purchase it. It is a bit of an addiction which I am all too happy to maintain. 

It will grab certain people by the retinas and refuse to let go. They are pulled in like ducks to water.  Quack. Quack.