gemstone

Polished pale jade pendant

Likely nephrite jade (fibrous amphibole); possibly jadeite jade

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: about 6–6.5 Mohs for nephrite, 6.5–7 for jadeite; translucent pale blue-gray to green, waxy/greasy luster, tough microfibrous crystal structure, and no obvious cleavage. The smooth disc and bead are shaped and polished geological material.

Hardness: about 6–6

Identified August 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jade forms through high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphism, commonly in subduction-zone serpentinite environments; jadeite deposits are typically Mesozoic or younger, while nephrite occurs in metamorphic belts of varied ages.

Uses & applications

Used for carvings, pendants, beads, tools, and ornamental objects; value depends strongly on identity, translucency, color, texture, size, and workmanship.

Geological facts

Jade’s exceptional toughness comes from interlocking microscopic fibers or grains, making it much more resistant to breaking than its moderate hardness suggests.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Myanmar, Guatemala, China, New Zealand, Canada, and Russia. Field clues include cool feel, high toughness, waxy polish, and granular/fibrous texture; hardness and specific-gravity tests or spectroscopy are needed to distinguish jade from chalcedony, glass, or serpentine.