Chrysoprase is a variety of chalcedony (quartz) which is an opalescent apple green color. Most green gemstones owe their color to chromium or vanadium, but chrysoprase derives it’s beautiful coloration from the nickel content it contains. Which means that it is possible for the color to fade if it is subjected to too much sunlight. The name chrysoprase comes from the Greek chrysos meaning ‘gold’ and prason, meaning ‘leek’ or ‘bloom’. The Greeks bestowed this name due to the presence of the golden drops that appear to be contained in the stone.