Jadeite
Jadeite is one of the two quite different minerals that are sold as jade, the other being nephrite. Jadeite is a sodium aluminium silicate of the pyroxene group. It is made up of tiny interlocking crystals, which make it exceptionally tough and resistant to breaking, and it takes a fine, glassy polish.
Jadeite occurs in many colours, including white, green, lavender, yellow, orange, brown and black. The most prized is "imperial jade", a translucent, intense emerald green coloured by chromium, which is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. Lavender jadeite is also highly sought after.
The word "jade" comes from the Spanish "piedra de ijada", meaning "stone of the side", from the belief that it could cure kidney and hip complaints. Jadeite was carved by the Olmec, Maya and Aztec civilisations of Central America, who valued it above gold. Most fine jadeite today comes from northern Myanmar (Burma); jadeite from Myanmar became popular in China in the late 18th century, where it is known as "feicui". Other sources include Guatemala, Japan and Russia.
Jade is often graded by treatment. "Type A" jade is natural and untreated apart from waxing; "Type B" has been bleached and impregnated with polymer resin to improve its appearance; and "Type C" has been dyed. Treated jade is far less valuable and its colour or durability may change over time. Many other stones are sold as "jade", including dyed quartzite, serpentine, aventurine and glass.
Jadeite at a glance
| Colour | Green (to imperial green), white, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, black |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Composition | Sodium aluminium silicate (pyroxene) |
| Crystal structure | Monoclinic; fine interlocking grains |
| Lustre | Vitreous to greasy |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Where it is found | Myanmar, Guatemala, Japan, Russia, Kazakhstan and USA (California) |
| Wedding anniversary | 35th |
Caring for jadeite
Jadeite (6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale) is extremely tough and suitable for everyday wear. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then dry. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners and harsh chemicals, especially if the stone may be treated (Type B or C jade). Avoid high heat. Store separately from harder stones to avoid scratches.
In folklore
The beliefs below are traditional folklore, included for interest. They are not scientifically proven, and nothing here is medical advice.
Jade has been treasured for thousands of years and is particularly revered in Chinese culture, where it symbolises purity, wisdom, longevity and good fortune, and is often given as a protective charm. In Central America, the Olmec and Maya placed jadeite beads in the mouths of the dead and associated the stone with water, maize and life. Jade is the traditional gift for a 35th wedding anniversary and is associated with the zodiac signs Libra, Pisces and Virgo.
Jade is traditionally regarded as a stone of harmony, good luck and protection. Crystal healing lore holds that jadeite brings calm and emotional balance, encourages wisdom and self-sufficiency, and attracts prosperity. It is linked to the heart chakra.
Related stones
Nephrite (the other jade mineral), chloromelanite (dark green to black jadeite) and maw sit sit. Stones sold as or confused with jade include serpentine ("new jade"), green aventurine ("Indian jade"), dyed quartzite ("Malaysian jade"), prehnite, chrysoprase, grossular garnet, bowenite and glass.
For the technically minded
| Scientific name | NaAlSi2O6 |
|---|---|
| Density | 3.24 – 3.43 |
| Refractive index | 1.654 – 1.693 |
| Double refraction | 0.013 – 0.020 |
| Cleavage | Perfect (rarely seen in massive jade) |
| Streak | White |
| Fluorescence | Usually inert; some weak white |