Agate

Amethyst

Aquamarine

Aventurine

Carnelian

Chrysoprase

Haematite

Jade

Jasper

Malachite

Quartz Crystal

Rose Quartz

Sugilite

Tiger's Eye

Topaz

Tourmaline

Verdite

Verdite

Generally thought of as deep green in colour, but is found in a variety of shades of green, often mottled with yellow, red, white and light green patches (see also: Colour Significance).

A fairly rare gem and the few known deposits are found in the Barberton district of South Africa, where gold was first found. Some of the oldest outcrops of rock in the world, about 3 500 million years old are found here. Believed to cleanse the blood, reduce toxicity and improve oxygenation within the body. Thought to soften abrasive character traits. Of great value in African traditional medicine, it is used to treat genital disorders. Used as an ingredient for sexual impotency and in preparations for improving fertility (see also: How they Work).

General Notes: Verdite is not commonly used in jewellery - but is available in natural shapes and carved items.

This mineral is available in many practical and useful forms