metamorphic
Yellow Jade
Nephrite (Ca2(Mg, Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (NaAlSi2O6)
Hardness: 6.0-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (splintery fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.9-3.4
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden honey
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (splintery fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.9-3.4
Formation & geological history
Formed through high-pressure metamorphism. Nephrite is usually found in metamorphic rocks associated with serpentinite, while Jadeite forms in subduction zones involving high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic conditions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a decorative gemstone in the metaphysical and 'healing' crystal markets.
Geological facts
Yellow jade is often valued for its translucency; in Chinese culture, yellow is a color traditionally associated with royalty and prosperity. True yellow jade is quite rare, and many commercial specimens are actually yellow serpentine or treated quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy luster and extreme toughness. In the field, it is often found as water-worn pebbles in riverbeds near metamorphic belts in regions like Myanmar, China, Canada, and New Zealand. It feels 'cold' to the touch due to high thermal conductivity.
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