Jade
Nephrite Jade · Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic; massive, microcrystalline, or fibrous interlocking habit
Mineral Group
Inosilicates (Amphibole group)
Chemical Formula
Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2
Formation Process
Metamorphic; forms through metasomatism in serpentinites or dolomitic limestones under high pressure and moderate temperature conditions
About This Crystal
A polished rectangular pendant carved from nephrite jade, displaying a mottled mix of olive green, forest green, and darker grayish-black patches. It has a smooth surface finish with a sub-vitreous to greasy luster, typical of dense, finely interlocking amphibole microfibers, and is translucent to opaque.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from light to dark green with dark inclusions; white streak; no true cleavage (tough interlocking fibers); splintery to uneven fracture; specific gravity around 2.95 to 3.10; extremely tough and resistant to breaking; non-magnetic; inert under UV light
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative; refractive index ranges from 1.600 to 1.627; low birefringence; faint pleochroism in shades of green; exhibits a soft, greasy or waxy sheen rather than high fire or brilliance
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
British Columbia, Canada; Xinjiang, China; Siberia, Russia; Wyoming, USA
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 6.5; exceptionally high toughness due to its tightly interwoven fibrous microstructure, making it far less brittle than many harder stones; highly durable for daily wear
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to extreme heat; ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution; store separately from harder gems to avoid scratching other pieces
Rarity & Value
Uncommon to Rare depending on color uniformity, translucency, and origin; high-quality mutton fat or vibrant spinach green nephrite commands high prices, though common commercial grades are widely accessible; treatments are rare for nephrite compared to jadeite
Special Characteristics
Incredible toughness exceeding that of steel due to the micro-fibrous interlaced felted structure; characteristic cloud-like or spinach-like dark inclusions and natural color zoning
Lore & History
Deeply revered in ancient Chinese, Mesoamerican, and Māori cultures as a stone of nobility, protection, and connection to the spiritual realm; traditionally used for weapons, ritual tools, and royal ornaments; in modern crystal healing, it is associated with the Heart Chakra, symbolizing abundance, tranquility, and harmony, though these are traditional cultural beliefs rather than scientific facts