Prasiolite – The Gentle Green Quartz
Prasiolite – The Gentle Green Quartz
Prasiolite, sometimes referred to as Green Amethyst, emits a soft, calming glow that evokes the sensation of fresh leaves after a rain. Whether you’re drawn to its soothing colour or its heart-centred energy, this crystal has an intriguing story—one that blends natural geology with a bit of human help.
Science & Structure
Prasiolite is a green variety of quartz (SiO₂), sharing the same crystal structure and a Mohs hardness of 7 as amethyst and citrine. Its colour is usually created when amethyst is heated—either deep underground by natural geothermal activity or by people using controlled heat treatment. When most amethyst is heated it turns yellow (that’s how much citrine on the market is made), but some special deposits shift to green instead, creating prasiolite’s soft sage hue.
Natural vs. Heat-Treated
Here’s the part many crystal lovers are only now hearing about:
Most prasiolite on the market is heat treated.
Truly natural green prasiolite is rare and expensive.
Only recently have some suppliers openly shared this information, so it’s not surprising many sellers still don’t realise their stock has been enhanced.
Whether that matters is a personal choice. Humans have been “tinkering” with stones for thousands of years—ancient Egyptians, for example, heated lapis to deepen its colour. What’s most important is honesty from suppliers and sellers, so you can decide if heat treatment fits your own crystal practice.
A Glimpse of History
Prasiolite was first identified in the early 20th century, but its popularity has grown as more people discover its delicate green shade. Small natural deposits exist, yet most of the prasiolite you’ll find today begins as amethyst from Brazil or Arizona that has been gently heated to bring out its minty glow.
Metaphysical Properties
Even when heat treated, prasiolite is cherished for its gentle, heart-centred energy. Crystal workers say it:
Opens and balances the heart chakra
Supports emotional healing and compassion
Encourages a deeper connection with nature and intuition
Aligns the heart with higher guidance, bringing clarity and calm
Its soft green colour alone can feel soothing, like a breath of fresh forest air.
Modern-Day Uses
Prasiolite’s durability makes it ideal for jewellery, from earrings to statement rings, and it shines as a meditation stone or a peaceful addition to a crystal grid. Place a piece in a sunlit room to invite a calm, balanced atmosphere or carry a tumbled stone for a quiet reminder of growth and renewal.
A Kiwi Touch
Here in New Zealand, where green landscapes are part of daily life, prasiolite fits right in. I keep a piece in the Blissful Things crystal cabin in the Bay of Plenty; its subtle colour echoes the rolling hills and native bush outside. Whether you prefer purely natural stones or are comfortable with heat-treated gems, prasiolite offers a soothing energy that complements our laid-back Kiwi lifestyle.
Prasiolite is a reminder that nature and humans sometimes work together to create beauty. If you’re drawn to its gentle green, trust your intuition—just choose sellers who share its story honestly, and enjoy the calm heart energy this unique crystal brings.
