gemstone

Black jade or dark serpentine cabochon

Jadeite (NaAlSi₂O₆) or nephrite amphibole; possibly serpentine (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque dark green-black, polished cabochon with vitreous to waxy luster; likely tough and fine-grained. Jadeite hardness is 6.5–7, nephrite 6–6.5, and serpentine 2.5–5.5; cleavage is absent or poorly developed.

Identified August 12, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Black jade or dark serpentine cabochon
Scientific name: Jadeite (NaAlSi₂O₆) or nephrite amphibole; possibly serpentine (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄)
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$50 if common serpentine or imitation; $50–$500 for verified commercial jade, with exceptional jadeite far higher.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jadeite forms in high-pressure subduction-zone metamorphic rocks, while nephrite forms by metasomatism; serpentine forms through hydration of ultramafic rocks. The exact geological age and identity cannot be determined from the photograph alone.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, rings, carvings, beads, and ornamental objects; genuine high-quality jade can be valuable.

Geological facts

The visible dark green-black material and mottled internal texture are compatible with jade, but dyed serpentine, black chalcedony, or another polished stone are also possible.

Field identification & locations

Check translucency at the edge, density, interlocking fibrous texture, and resistance to scratching; professional refractive-index, specific-gravity, and spectroscopy testing is needed for confirmation. Common sources include Myanmar, Guatemala, China, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.