Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (Na(Al,Fe3+)Si2O6)

Hardness: Nephrite (6-6.5), Jadeite (6.5-7); Color: Varies, commonly green (from pale to dark), white, yellow, orange, lavender, and black; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good (Nephrite, fibrous intergrown crystals make it very tough), None (Jadeite, but exhibits good parting);…

Hardness: Nephrite (6-6
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified November 3, 2025More metamorphic rock / mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jade is formed under intense pressure and relatively low temperatures. Nephrite jade forms in serpentine-rich metamorphic rocks, often associated with subduction zones. Jadeite jade forms under even higher pressures and lower temperatures, typically in metamorphic rocks within subduction zones. The geological age can vary widely, from hundreds of millions of years to more recent formations.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone and in jewelry for carvings, beads, and cabochons due to its exceptional toughness. Historically and culturally significant in many civilizations, especially in East Asia and Mesoamerica, for tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Also valued by collectors.

Geological facts

The term 'jade' actually refers to two distinct minerals, Nephrite and Jadeite, which have different chemical compositions and crystal structures but share similar appearances and toughness. Jadeite is generally rarer, harder, and often commands higher prices than nephrite. The most prized jadeite, known as 'imperial jade,' is a vibrant emerald green due to the presence of chromium.

Field identification & locations

In the field, jade can be identified by its characteristic smooth, waxy luster and often translucent appearance. Its extreme toughness distinguishes it from many look-alike minerals. Common locations for nephrite include British Columbia (Canada), Siberia (Russia), Wyoming (USA), and various parts of China. Jadeite is found in Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Japan, and parts of California (USA). Collectors look for even color distribution, translucency, and the absence of cracks or inclusions.

Other metamorphic rock / mineral specimens

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Gneiss

Gneissic Metamorphic Rock (Mineral composition: Quartz, Feldspar, Amphibole/Biotite)

metamorphic

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite: Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2 (amphibole mineral); Jadeite: NaAlSi2O6 (pyroxene mineral)

Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (Na(Al,Fe3+)Si2O6)

Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Slate

Slate (a fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock). Mineral composition: Primarily composed of mica minerals (muscovite, chlorite, sericite) and quartz, with minor amounts of hematite, pyrite, and other accessory minerals.

sedimentary

Stichtite in Serpentine (Atlantasite)

Mg6Cr2CO3(OH)16·4H2O (Stichtite) within Mg3Si2O5(OH)4 (Serpentine)

Metamorphic rock / Mineral variety

Aventurine (likely Green Aventurine)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with included minerals (Fuchsite for green)

Metamorphic Rock / Mineral (Quartz Variety)