Jade (Yellow Nephrite Jade)
Nephrite var. Jade · Decorative Stone / Precious Gemstone / Carving Material
Crystal System
Monoclinic; massive, microcrystalline, and interlocking fibrous habit (intergrown tremolite-actinolite fibers)
Mineral Group
Silicates; Amphibole subgroup
Chemical Formula
Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2
Formation Process
Metamorphic, specifically contact or regional metamorphism involving metasomatism between serpentine and surrounding calcium-rich rocks or dolostones at high pressures and moderate temperatures.
About This Crystal
The specimen is intricately hand-carved into the shape of a traditional coiled dragon, featuring detailed scale patterns, a horned head, and flowing tail elements. It displays a pale, translucent yellow-greenish hue with a smooth, waxy to greasy luster. The texture is microcrystalline and homogeneous with subtle mottled variations typical of dense fibrous amphibole aggregates.
Physical Characteristics
Pale yellow-green body color with a white streak. Massive, compact microcrystalline habit. Cleavage is prismatic on {110} but rarely observed in massive varieties. Fracture is splintery to uneven due to interlocking fibers. Specific gravity ranges from 2.90 to 3.03. Tenacity is exceptionally tough, making it resistant to breakage. Non-magnetic and generally non-fluorescent.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative with a refractive index ranging between 1.606 and 1.632. Birefringence is weak to moderate (around 0.027). Pleochroism is typically weak in shades of pale green or yellow. It exhibits a characteristic greasy to waxy luster and translucency ranging from semi-translucent to opaque.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include China (Xinjiang/Hotan region), Canada (British Columbia), Russia, and the United States (Wyoming). Typically forms in metamorphic environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 6.5. Despite a slightly lower hardness than jadeite, nephrite possesses legendary toughness and resistance to shattering due to its interlocking felted fibrous structure, making it exceptionally durable for daily wear and intricate carving.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaning. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching, and protect from prolonged direct sunlight or extreme temperature shifts.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon depending on the specific color and quality. Pure or finely colored yellow and mutton-fat nephrite is highly prized and commands high value, particularly in traditional Chinese carving markets. Most common commercial carvings are moderately priced.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional toughness due to the microfibrous interlocking crystal structure. Often exhibits a smooth, waxy feel and rich chatoyant-like sheen under polished surfaces due to light scattering through the fine fibrous network.
Lore & History
Historically revered in Chinese culture for thousands of years as the 'Stone of Heaven,' symbolizing purity, nobility, and moral integrity, frequently carved into protective talismans, imperial seals, and mythical creatures like dragons. In modern crystal healing traditions, yellow jade is associated with the solar plexus chakra, believed to promote joy, vitality, and emotional balance, though these are traditional cultural beliefs rather than scientific claims.