Chalcedony
A species of Quartz, Also known as Botryoidal Chalcedony Scientific name : Chalcedony Mineral : Quartz
Chalcedony, A species of Quartz
Also known as:
Botryoidal Chalcedony
Scientific name: Chalcedony
Mineral: Quartz
Description
A cryptocrystalline form of silica, chalcedony occurs in a wide range of varieties: onyx, agate, carnelian and more. It has been in use as a component of human tools since prehistory, as archaeological sites in Central Australia have revealed. Chalcedony was also a popular seal stone among the Cretan Minoans.
Physical Properties
Colors
Colorless, white, gray, blue
Luster
Waxy
Diaphaneity
Translucent
Refractive Index
1.530-1.543
Birefringence
0.003-0.009
Pleochroism
None
Dispersion
0.013
Optical Character
Biaxial positive
Chemical Properties
Chemical Classification
Silicates
Formula
SiO2
Elements listed
Si, O
People often ask
General Info
Price
Color, purity, transparency, and weight are the decisive factors affecting the price of tumbled chalcedony. A tumbled specimen of ordinary quality, about 2.5 cm in diameter, usually costs between $1-$10/piece, while rarer high-quality crystals can sell for hundreds of dollars.
Healing Properties
Chalcedony is considered a powerful healing stone that works on all of the chakras to balance the mind, body, and spirit. It removes negative energy and allows positive energy to flow through. It may help with the emotional healing of grief and despair and is often used during meditation to restore feelings of hope and enthusiasm.
How to Select
Chalcedony, known for its unique grape-like formation, is valued based on several characteristics:
1.Color: chalcedony can occur in many colors. The most desirable one often depends on current market trends and individual preferences. However, a vivid and consistent color is generally more sought after.
2.Formation Quality: The quality of the botryoidal (grape-like) formation greatly affects desirability. A specimen with a well-formed, distinct, smooth "bubble" or "grape" is highly prized.
3.Size: A larger specimen showcasing excellent botryoidal formation is typically more valuable due to its rarity and visual impact.
4.Translucency: Some varieties of chalcedony exhibit a degree of translucency, which can add to its aesthetic appeal and increase its value.
5.Surface Luster: A high-quality polish that enhances the stone's natural luster is preferred, as it highlights the unique botryoidal formation.
Always purchase from a reputable dealer to ensure you're getting genuine chalcedony.
Usage
Chalcedony and its varieties such as Agate, Onyx, and Heliotrope are among the most significant ornamental and lapidary stones. It is used for making tumbled stones, beads, cabochons, cameos, sculptures and many other items. Curiously, chalcedony was used by humans in prehistory for tool making, with chalcedony items found in Australia dating back 32,000 years.
Meaning
Chalcedony is an enigmatic gem with many myths attached to it. Cicero, the famous Roman orator, is said to have worn chalcedony around his neck. Native Americans believed chalcedony was a sacred stone and used it in their ceremonial rituals. It is also said that this stone was used in the Jewish High Priest's Breastplate.
Types
Chalcedony occurs in a wide range of varieties. Many semi-precious gemstones are in fact forms of chalcedony. The more notable varieties of chalcedony are as follows: Agate, Carnelian, Chrysoprase, Heliotrope, Moss agate, Chrome Chalcedony, Onyx.
How to identify it?
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