gemstone
Amber and Jadeite Beads
Fossilized Tree Resin and Sodium Aluminum Silicate
Amber hardness: 2-2.5 Mohs, warm to touch, resinous luster. Jadeite hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs, vitreous to greasy luster, monoclinic crystal system.
- Hardness
- 2-2
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Physical properties
Amber hardness: 2-2.5 Mohs, warm to touch, resinous luster. Jadeite hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs, vitreous to greasy luster, monoclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Amber is formed from fossilized tree resin dating back millions of years. Jadeite forms under high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic conditions in subduction zones.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in fine jewelry, beads, ornamental carvings, and spiritual items.
Geological facts
Amber often preserves ancient insects and plant matter trapped millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Popular for bead making and holistic jewelry, commonly authenticated using electrostatic tests for amber and density tests for jadeite.
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