Beautiful pair of antique vintage Chrysoprase 18k gold cufflinks. The Chrysoprase is associated with the Astrological sign Gemini and is considered a very fortunate birth stone for Gemini. Like the Agate, it is a variety of quartz and takes its name from two Greek words meaning "golden leek," in reference to its color, which varies from an opaque yellowish green to a very light dirty white-green. The color has a tendency to fade from long exposure to the light and sun, but can be restored if the stone is dipped in a solution of nitrate of nickel. The finest specimens come from Silesia, and when the stone was in demand it used to be customary to close the mines for every two years out of three. According the Albertus Magnus, a Chrysoprase formed the Amulet of Alexander the Great, and Chrysoprase was much used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for signet rings and cameos; and also by the Egyptians, who set it with lapis lazuli. The virtues attributed to the Chrysoprase were that it imparted cheerfulness, making the heart glad by removing uneasiness, protecting its wearers from evil dreams and the assaults of demons. It also bestowed all kinds of blessings on its owner, giving assiduity in good works, and taking away all greedy and covetous desires, bringing success in new enterprises, and true and faithful friends: and it was also worn as an Amulet against rheumatism and gout. The Agates and Chrysoprase stones will not, however, be fortunate for those born during the time that the Sun occupies the Houses of Virgo and Pisces. The cufflinks measure 27.5mm, 1-1/18 inches from the top of the bullet shaped chrysoprase to the back of the locking bar. They have a diameter of 15.5mm. Weight 9.8 grams. The chrysoprase are gem quality beautiful color and beautifully cabochoned to a bullet like top. The chrysoprase measures more than 2 carats each. This is a beautiful pair of vintage cufflinks, a lovely design, guaranteed to please their new owner. (Item #72984)

Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Antique Mens Jewelry