Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite: Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2 (amphibole mineral); Jadeite: NaAlSi2O6 (pyroxene mineral)

Hardness: Nephrite 5
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified November 3, 2025More metamorphic rock / mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: Nephrite 5.5-6.5, Jadeite 6.5-7 (Mohs scale). Color: Wide range of greens (most common: dark green, apple green, spinach green), but can also be white, yellow, lavender, black. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Nephrite is microcrystalline fibrous aggregates; Jadeite is microcrystalline interlocking granules. Cleavage: Nephrite has perfect cleavage in two directions at nearly 56/124 degrees, but rarely seen due to fibrous nature; Jadeite has good prismatic cleavage. Specific Gravity: Nephrite 2.9-3.3, Jadeite 3.3-3.5.

Formation & geological history

Jade forms under conditions of high pressure and relatively low temperature in metamorphic rocks. Nephrite typically forms in serpentinites and other altered ultramafic rocks. Jadeite forms in subduction zones where oceanic crust is pushed beneath continental crust, creating blue-schist facies metamorphic rocks. Geological age varies depending on the specific deposit, often associated with tectonic processes over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Prized for millennia in ornamental art, sculptures, and jewelry, especially in Asian cultures. Used for tools and weapons in ancient societies due to its toughness. Highly valued as a gemstone and carving material.

Geological facts

The term 'jade' broadly refers to two distinct minerals, nephrite and jadeite, both of which are tough and beautiful. Jadeite is generally rarer, more vibrant in color, and more valuable than nephrite, especially the imperial jade variety. Ancient cultures, particularly in China and Mesoamerica, revered jade for its beauty, durability, and perceived spiritual qualities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct greasy luster, exceptional toughness (resistance to breaking), and characteristic green color (though other colors exist). Nephrite is generally softer and has a more fibrous appearance than jadeite. Common locations for nephrite include China, Russia, Canada, and New Zealand. Jadeite is found in Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Japan, and parts of California. A scratch test can sometimes distinguish jade from simulants; genuine jade is difficult to scratch with a steel knife.

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Gneiss

Gneissic Metamorphic Rock (Mineral composition: Quartz, Feldspar, Amphibole/Biotite)

metamorphic

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (Na(Al,Fe3+)Si2O6)

Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)

Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (Na(Al,Fe3+)Si2O6)

Metamorphic Rock / Mineral

Slate

Slate (a fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock). Mineral composition: Primarily composed of mica minerals (muscovite, chlorite, sericite) and quartz, with minor amounts of hematite, pyrite, and other accessory minerals.

sedimentary

Stichtite in Serpentine (Atlantasite)

Mg6Cr2CO3(OH)16·4H2O (Stichtite) within Mg3Si2O5(OH)4 (Serpentine)

Metamorphic rock / Mineral variety

Aventurine (likely Green Aventurine)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with included minerals (Fuchsite for green)

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