metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Calcium Magnesium Iron Silicate Hydroxide - Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green to creamy white/gray; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Structure: Fibrous interlocking crystals; Cleavage: None (highly tough fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.90–3.03
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Dark green to creamy white/gray
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green to creamy white/gray; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Structure: Fibrous interlocking crystals; Cleavage: None (highly tough fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.90–3.03
Formation & geological history
Formed via contact metamorphism or metasomatism of serpentine or magnesian marbles. Commonly found in alluvial deposits or as river-worn boulders. Geological age varies greatly by deposit from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, sculpture, and historically for durable tool-making (axes and blades) due to its extreme toughness.
Geological facts
Nephrite is significantly tougher than steel. It was highly prized in ancient China where it was known as the 'Stone of Heaven' and used for imperial artifacts for over 5,000 years.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy surface, extreme toughness (it does not chip easily), and sub-translucent edges when held to light. Found commonly in British Columbia, New Zealand (Pounamu), and Wyoming.
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