Poetic and enlightening: Chrysolite is a special gemstone

The power and its effect

How does Chrysolite express this power and its effect? The radiant green gem is known to dispel negative influences and emotions. This makes room for positive influences and a clear mind. An attitude without judgment and annoyances, and with a strong sense of welcome.

The expulsion of negativity could even have a physical effect on the wearer. Chrysolite can improve metabolism, detoxify the body, and may have a positive effect on the heart, kidneys, liver and eyes. It can generally ensure good cooperation between the organs and help to remove any toxins or waste that is present. Double detox, and ready for good things!

Shakespeare

In Shakespeare's work there is a reference to the green gemstone.

' Had she been true,

If heaven would make me such another world of one entire and perfect Chrysolite.

I'd not have sold her for it. '

Othello 5.2.143

After killing Desdemona, Othello makes an unusual comparison between her alleged lost purity and the gem chrysolite.

What does it mean?

Opinions are divided about the views surrounding this quote. It would seem that Shakespeare does not know the value and power of Chrysolite, perhaps because he has never seen it. Others state that he confused Chrysolite and crystal, and actually meant crystal here.

The strongest argument, however, is that Chrysolite's powers are strikingly applicable to Desdemona and Othello. The stone is associated with chastity by Shakespeare, and generally in his day. Furthermore, the green gem is described as exotic, with the ability to be welcome among strange people, which would also apply to Othello. Finally, because of its clear, golden radiance, chrysolite symbolizes wisdom, charity and dignity – characteristics that would apply to Desdemona.

So much for a piece of poetry and literature, for which Chrysolite apparently also lends itself extremely well.

Back to basic

The meaning of the name for Chrysolite comes from the Greek chrysolithus, freely translating to 'golden stone'. The gemstone was first used around 1500 BC. The Ancient Egyptians spent decades mining Chrysolite on an island in the middle of the Red Sea. This uninhabited island, called Zabargad, produces very high quality Chrysolite gemstones to this day. The difference with the past is that the stone is now also mined during the day, instead of only at night. Chrysolite was called "stone of the sun" by the ancient Egyptians. They believed that Chrysolites "sucked up" sunlight during the day and released it at night. That is why they only extracted chrysolites at night. And they weren't the only ones with this belief. The Romans also believed that Chrysolites radiated light and power at night, and called them the 'Evening Emeralds'.

Around the Middle Ages, Chrysolite was shipped to Europe, where it was received with open arms. The clear, light stone was seen as a beacon of light in the dark Middle Ages. It was worn as an amulet against evil and dark magic. It became a highly prized gemstone.

Olivine of gem quality

Chrysolite is formed in the Earth's mantle. This places it next to diamond, as the only other gemstone. The rest is formed in the Earth's crust. Chrysolites therefore form – just like diamonds – under extremely high pressure and temperature. That is why it is also called Olivine of very high gem quality.

Nobody knows exactly how old Chrysolite is. What we do know is that in 1749 a meteorite was discovered in Siberia, studded with Chrysolites. The age of this 'fallen star' was estimated to be as much as 14 million years old. The green gems have also been found on Mars, and on the moon.

An extraterrestrially beautiful stone, which today still has a huge attraction for people. Our collection of vintage jewelry also contains beautiful pieces set with chrysolite. Also discover the Vintage Jewelery Atelier collection, of which we make the Queen's ring with a bright green, synthetic chrysolite.