Lemon Jade
Jadeite var. Lemon Jade · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic, massive or microcrystalline habit
Mineral Group
Silicates, pyroxene group
Chemical Formula
NaAlSi2O6
Formation Process
Metamorphic, forming in high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic environments associated with subduction zones
About This Crystal
A smooth, tumbled, yellowish-green to bright lemon-yellow stone with a waxy to greasy luster. It is translucent to opaque with a polished, rounded surface typical of tumble-finished stones.
Physical Characteristics
Color is a vibrant lemon-yellow to greenish-yellow with a white streak. Cleavage is good in two directions at nearly right angles, but rarely seen in tumbled stones. Fracture is splintery to uneven. Specific gravity is approximately 3.24 to 3.43. Tenacity is exceptionally tough and resistant to breaking due to its interlocking microcrystalline fibers.
Optical Properties
Refractive index ranges from 1.654 to 1.667. Birefringence is weak (0.012 to 0.020). It is doubly refractive (biaxial positive) with a vitreous to greasy luster on polished surfaces.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Russia, and California, USA
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is 6.5 to 7, making it very durable and suitable for all types of jewelry wear. It has remarkable toughness, surpassing that of quartz.
Care & Maintenance
Can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has been treated or dyed. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon depending on the intensity of the yellow color and transparency. Value is determined by color saturation, texture, and translucency. Natural untreated vibrant yellow jade can command higher prices.
Special Characteristics
Known for its dense, tightly packed microcrystalline structure which gives it an oily or waxy luster and extreme toughness. Often associated with gentle chatoyancy or fibrous internal textures under magnification.
Lore & History
Historically revered across Asian cultures as a stone of purity, nobility, and wisdom. Yellow jade is traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra, believed to stimulate joy, optimism, and emotional digestion, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims.