Where is Prasiolite found?
Quartz (SiO2) variety Prasiolite
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Open the appPrasiolite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Prasiolite
Montezuma, Minas Gerais, Brazil
One of the primary sources of natural prasiolite. Amethyst from this region is known to turn green upon natural heating.
Lower Silesia, Poland
Another notable locality for natural prasiolite, where amethyst has been naturally altered.
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Some amethyst from this region can be heat-treated to produce prasiolite.
Various Amethyst Localities Worldwide
Since most prasiolite is heat-treated amethyst, any significant amethyst deposit (e.g., Uruguay, Bolivia, Zambia, Russia) can be a source for material that can be converted to prasiolite.
Collecting tips
- Distinguish from other green minerals. Prasiolite's hardness (7 on Mohs scale) and lack of cleavage are key identifiers. Peridot is softer (6.5-7) and has distinct cleavage. Green beryl (emerald) is harder (7.5-8) and has imperfect cleavage. Glass imitations are softer and may show gas bubbles.
- Observe color stability. Be aware that some prasiolite's color can fade with prolonged exposure to strong sunlight or heat. This is particularly true for artificially treated material. Natural prasiolite tends to be more color-stable.
- Look for characteristic quartz crystal forms. When found in its natural crystalline form, look for the typical hexagonal prismatic habit with pyramidal terminations characteristic of quartz.
- Check for inclusions. Like other quartz varieties, prasiolite can contain various inclusions, though high-quality gem material is typically eye-clean. Inclusions can sometimes help in origin determination.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Pale green to yellowish-green
- Luster:
- Vitreous
- Streak:
- White
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