metamorphic

Carved nephrite jade pendant

Nephrite jade; interlocking tremolite–actinolite amphibole, Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Creamy yellow-green, translucent to opaque, waxy to vitreous luster, very tough and typically non-cleavable; Mohs hardness 6–6.5, specific gravity about 2.9–3.1. The polished rectangular pendant is hand-carved and drilled, with an attached metal bail.

Identified September 21, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Carved nephrite jade pendant in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Carved nephrite jade pendant
Scientific name: Nephrite jade; interlocking tremolite–actinolite amphibole, Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $20–$150 for a common carved pendant; fine, translucent, evenly colored certified nephrite may reach $300–$2,000+.

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

Nephrite forms by metamorphic alteration of ultramafic or dolomitic rocks, commonly in subduction-related shear zones; deposits range from Paleozoic to Cenozoic. Color reflects iron and minor impurities; exact locality and age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for carved ornaments, beads, pendants, tools, and culturally significant objects, especially in Chinese, Māori, and Central Asian traditions. Jewelry value depends strongly on translucency, even color, carving quality, and confirmed jade identity.

Geological facts

Nephrite’s dense interlocking fibers give it exceptional toughness, often greater than jadeite. Similar-looking serpentine, bowenite, dyed chalcedony, and glass are common imitations.

Field identification & locations

Identify by strong toughness, waxy appearance, cool feel, and resistance to scratching by a steel knife (though testing can damage it); laboratory refractive-index, specific-gravity, and spectroscopy tests are preferable. Common sources include China, British Columbia, Siberia, New Zealand, and Wyoming.