Chrysoprase rates 8 out of a possible 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, yet its color is delicate - fading when subjected to heat or sunlight. Many deposits of chrysoprase have now been completely worked out. The best quality specimens are now derived from deposits in Queensland, Australia. Chrysoprase cameo set in gold Crystal healers believe that chrysoprase can alleviate negative emotions like anger and depression, and promote positive mental qualities such as tolerance, kindness, and creativity. Chrysoprase is also associated with fertility, and with the protection of the reproductive organs in both sexes.
Citrine can vary in shade from yellow to deep amber, and can be almost identical in color to topaz.
It takes its name from 'citron', the French word for lemon. Authentic citrine is rare - most of the commercially available 'citrine' is in fact amethyst which has been heat treated to change its color to gold. In ancient times, citrine was thought to be an antidote to snake venom. Today, crystal healers claim that it can induce dreams, promote self-awareness, and combat depression.