Yellow Jade
Omphacite / Jadeite / Nephrite var. Yellow Jade · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Monoclinic, massive or microcrystalline habit
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Inosilicates (Pyroxene and Amphibole groups)
Chemical Formula
NaAlSi2O6 (Jadeite) / Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2 (Nephrite)
Formation Process
Metamorphic, typically formed under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions in subduction zones or serpentinite bodies
About This Crystal
Small, tumbled, barrel-shaped or nugget-shaped drilled beads showing a pale to buttery yellow coloration with slight translucency and a smooth, waxy luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale cream-yellow to warm buttery yellow; white streak; no true cleavage due to microcrystalline interlocking structure; uneven or splintery fracture; specific gravity around 3.0 to 3.3; extremely tough and interlocking tenacity
Optical Properties
Refractive index ranges from 1.60 to 1.67; doubly refractive with aggregate birefringence; vitreous to waxy luster; generally non-pleochroic in pale varieties
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Myanmar, China, Guatemala, Russia, and California
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 7.0 (Nephrite is slightly tougher, Jadeite is harder); exceptionally high toughness making it highly resistant to breakage, suitable for everyday jewelry wear
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water; avoid harsh chemical cleaners, prolonged direct sunlight, and extreme ultrasonic cleaning if dyed or treated; store separately from harder stones like diamonds or corundum to avoid surface scratching
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon depending on color saturation and natural origin; natural, untreated vibrant yellow jade can command higher values, though pale and treated commercial grades are affordable and widely accessible
Special Characteristics
Interlocking fibrous or microcrystalline structure provides legendary mechanical toughness; frequently dyed or heat-treated in commercial markets to enhance yellow coloration
Lore & History
Historically revered in Asian cultures, particularly China, as a stone of nobility, wealth, protection, and good fortune; in modern metaphysical practices, yellow jade is traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra, vitality, joy, and emotional nourishment, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims