Jade

For your gem needs see our Recommended Suppliers.

CHEMISTRY Jadeite, NaAlSi₂O₆. Nephrite, Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅(Si₄O₁₁)₂(OH)₂
CRYSTALLOGRAPHY Monoclinic, though usually microscopic.
REFRACTIVE INDEX Jadeite 1.64 - 1.667. Nephrite, 1.600 - 1.641
HARDNESS Jadeite 6.5 - 7. Nephrite, 6 - 6.5
SPECIFIC GRAVITY Jadeite 3.25 - 3.36. Nephrite, 2.90 - 3.02
CLEAVAGE None
HEAT SENSITIVE No

WEARABILITY* Excellent
SPECIAL CARE INSTRUCTIONS None

ENHANCEMENTS Dying, occasional. Wax impregnation, occasional.

*Wearability is graded as Excellent, Very Good, Good, Poor, and Forget It!
For more details see the article on "Hardness and Wearability."

Back to the Index of Gemstones