Collection: Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum stone also called “Xenotime” is a precious mineral and highly prized in Japanese and Asian culture in general.
In fact, it stands out strongly for its aesthetic and decorative appearance.
This stone is said to have existed for around 250 million years.
It was discovered in Norway in 1832 by the Swede Jöns Jacob Berzelius.
It was first named “Kénotime”.
After a typo, its title was then changed to "Xenotime". This mineral is mainly present in river beds.

This stone comes in many colors. In fact, it comes in yellow-brown, red-brown, but also in gray, green or red. The latter is a semi-rigid rock, opaque or transparent. It is also characterized by a veiled glow. Very delicate, Xenotime is easily scratched using a blade or a knife.

The chrysanthemum stone is named after its Japanese name: kiku-ishi. Indeed, the latter has a high concentration of calcite, which gives it its flower shape. Its diameter fluctuates between 5 cm and 8 cm. However, it can reach up to 50 cm. These stones are particularly esteemed by local sculptors in Japan and China. Indeed, they allow them to create modeled chrysanthemums and integrate them into the heart of their works. In addition, chrysanthemums represent blossoming, happiness and longevity in Japanese culture.

Chrysanthemum stone is composed of silica, clay and calcite. It also contains limestone, porphyry and chiastolite. In addition, this mineral is naturally arranged in the shape of a chrysanthemum due to the crystallization of certain minerals in the heart of the stone. This is why the flower appears both outside and inside.

Generally present in China, this rock is therefore used in the manufacture of sculptures. The indigenous craftsmen then learned to remove this chrysanthemum flower from its envelope. To do this, they equipped themselves with miniature tools and a sandblaster in order to release the chrysanthemum with precision and care. Some of these samples have even become works in their own right, highly appreciated by collectors.