Yellow Jade (Jadeite / Nephrite)
Jadeite var. Yellow Jade (NaAlSi2O6) or Nephrite var. Yellow Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) · Precious Gemstone / Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic, typically found in massive, compact, or microcrystalline granular habits
Mineral Group
Silicates (Inosilicates)
Chemical Formula
NaAlSi2O6 (Jadeite) with iron impurities causing the yellow color
Formation Process
Metamorphic, formed under high-pressure and low-temperature conditions in subduction zones or serpentinite bodies
About This Crystal
Carved into a traditional Chinese 'Bi' disk (doughnut shape), this specimen exhibits a warm honey-yellow to golden coloration with mottled internal cloudiness, natural granular texture, and a vitreous to greasy luster, ranging from translucent to opaque
Physical Characteristics
Yellow color with a white streak, tough interlocking microcrystalline structure causing splintery/tough tenacity, conchoidal to uneven fracture, no distinct cleavage visible on carved piece, specific gravity around 3.34 for jadeite or 2.95-3.0 for nephrite
Optical Properties
Biaxial (+) with refractive indices around 1.65-1.67, featuring a characteristic vitreous to waxy luster and often showing internal fibrous or granular structures under magnification
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Russia, China, and various alluvial deposits
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7 for jadeite (or 6 to 6.5 for nephrite), possessing exceptional toughness due to its interlocking microfibrous or granular fabric, making it extremely resistant to breaking and highly durable for daily jewelry wear
Care & Maintenance
Easy to care for; clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemical cleaners or prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and store separately from softer gemstones to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Uncommon to Rare depending on color saturation, purity, and transparency; natural untreated yellow jade of good translucency can command high prices, while heat-treated or polymer-impregnated specimens are more common and less valuable
Special Characteristics
Exceptional toughness that resists shattering, natural color zoning, and mottled internal textures unique to each carved piece
Lore & History
Historically revered in Chinese culture as the 'Stone of Heaven', shaped into ritual Bi disks representing wealth, protection, wisdom, and connection to the spiritual realm; traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra for enhancing personal power and abundance