Red Jade
Sodium Aluminum Silicate / Omphacite / Jadeite var. Red Jade · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic system, typically occurring in microcrystalline, compact, granular, or fibrous masses.
Mineral Group
Inosilicate (Pyroxene group)
Chemical Formula
NaAlSi2O6
Formation Process
Metamorphic formation, occurring under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions within subduction zones, often through metasomatism of serpentinite or peridotite rocks.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a beaded elastic stretch bracelet composed of smoothly polished, spherical beads. The beads exhibit a vibrant, saturated cherry-red to crimson coloration with subtle variations in translucency and occasional cloudy internal structures, possessing a vitreous to greasy luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from bright red to deep crimson; white or colorless streak; cleavage is distinct in two directions at roughly 87 degrees (often difficult to see in massive aggregates); fracture is splintery to uneven; specific gravity is approximately 3.24 to 3.43; tenacity is exceptionally tough due to its interlocking microfibrous structure.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (+) with refractive indices ranging between 1.654 and 1.667; birefringence is low (0.012 to 0.020); generally exhibits a translucent to semi-translucent appearance with no significant pleochroism visible in massive bead form.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Russia, and California in the USA, typically formed in metamorphic environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is 6.5 to 7. Due to its dense, interlocking microcrystalline fibrous crystal habit, it possesses extreme toughness, making it exceptionally resistant to breakage and highly durable for daily jewelry wear.
Care & Maintenance
Easy to maintain; can be safely cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and ultrasonic or steam cleaners if the stone has been dyed or polymer-impregnated.
Rarity & Value
Natural untreated red jade of high saturation is quite rare and valuable, but commercially available red jade beads are frequently color-enhanced, dyed, or heat-treated common quartz or lower-grade jadeite, placing them in an affordable price range.
Special Characteristics
Renowned primarily for its remarkable physical toughness rather than optical phenomena, though natural varieties may show subtle mottling and web-like internal grain patterns.
Lore & History
Historically revered in ancient Chinese, Mesoamerican, and Maori cultures as a stone of nobility, protection, and connection to the spiritual realm. In modern metaphysical practices, red jade is traditionally associated with the root chakra, symbolizing life force energy, passion, courage, and grounding, though these are cultural beliefs rather than scientifically proven properties.