Near Malborough, Queensland, Australia
A rare gem, chrysoprase is prized for the bright, translucent, apple-green color it displays — considered by many collectors to rival Burmese jadeite. The characteristic green color is caused by nickel oxides that penetrate the stone during its formation. Marlborough in Queensland, Australia was the best-known chrysoprase locality several decades ago and the present piece originates from that locality. Carved from a single piece of fine quality vivid green chrysoprase the lapdiary artist has made imaginative use of the inherent characteristics of the mineral. The green portion of the boulder was used to carve the two running horses, while the ironstone portion depicts the cliffs near which they run. This is an older carving most likely from the 1980s. Length 4 1/4 in