metamorphic

Polished greenstone (likely nephrite jade)

Nephrite, a fibrous aggregate of amphibole minerals, chiefly tremolite–actinolite, Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6–6.5 Mohs; olive to dark green, waxy-to-vitreous luster, opaque, extremely tough, with no obvious cleavage. The smooth elongated form is shaped and polished, so natural texture is obscured.

Identified September 21, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished greenstone (likely nephrite jade)
Scientific name: Nephrite, a fibrous aggregate of amphibole minerals, chiefly tremolite–actinolite, Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$50 for a common polished piece; $100–$500+ if confirmed, richly colored, and high quality.

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

Forms by metamorphism and metasomatism of magnesium-rich rocks, commonly in subduction-zone settings; deposits range from Paleozoic to much younger. Common sources include China, British Columbia, New Zealand, Siberia, and Wyoming.

Uses & applications

Used for carvings, beads, cabochons, ornaments, tools, and culturally significant objects; high-quality material is valued in jewelry and art.

Geological facts

Nephrite is one of the two materials historically called jade; the other is jadeite. Its interlocking microscopic fibers give it exceptional resistance to breaking.

Field identification & locations

Check for dense feel, very tough edges, waxy polish, and fibrous structure under magnification; hardness and appearance alone cannot distinguish it reliably from serpentine or other green stones, so testing may require specific gravity or spectroscopy.