Jade

Jade is a term applied to two different mineral species with similar appearances: Jadeite and Nephrite. Both are durable, fine-grained, and highly valued for carving. Jadeite is considered the 'precious' jade, typically having more vibrant colors, while Nephrite is known for its extreme toughness. For thousands of years, Jade has been the most important stone in Chinese culture, representing purity, longevity, and high status.

Formation & Geology

Both types of jade form under high pressure during the metamorphism of rocks. Nephrite is an actinolite/tremolite-series mineral, while Jadeite is a pyroxene. Nephrite's structure is an interlocking mass of fibrous crystals, which makes it the toughest naturally occurring mineral—even more resistant to shattering than diamond. Jadeite's structure is more granular.

Physical Characteristics

Jade is famous for its smooth, greasy luster when polished and its wide range of greens. 'Imperial Jade' is an emerald-green, translucent variety of jadeite and is the most valuable. While hardness is 6 to 7, jade's legendary 'toughness' is what allows it to be carved into incredibly intricate, delicate shapes without breaking. When struck, a high-quality piece of jade will produce a clear, bell-like musical tone.

Cultural Significance

In China, jade is known as 'Yu' (the Royal Gem). It has been used for everything from sacrificial vessels and burial suits to the highest honors given to emperors. To the Māori of New Zealand, nephrite (known as Pounamu) is a sacred stone used for tools, weapons (mere), and hei-tiki pendants. It is often passed down through generations as a powerful heirloom.

Nephrite vs. Jadeite

"Jade" is actually two completely different minerals. **Nephrite** is the traditional jade used in China for 5,000 years; it is usually creamy white (mutton fat) or spinach green and is incredibly tough. **Jadeite** came later (from Burma in the 1700s) and is the "imperial" gem-quality jade that can be translucent emerald-green, lavender, or ice-white. Jadeite is harder and rarer, while Nephrite is tougher and more durable.