Jadeite: The Complete Book on this Exquisite and Coveted Stone

Discover the ultimate guide to jadeite, covering its mineral properties, classification, deposits, and significance in jewelry and culture

Jadeite Mineral Facts

Jadeite is a rare pyroxene mineral, distinguished by its exceptional hardness (Mohs 6.5-7.0), remarkable toughness, and high density (specific gravity: 3.4). Its vibrant color spectrum ranges from soothing greens to pristine whites. Formed through intense metamorphism in subduction zones along continental margins, jadeite’s unique creation process involves high pressure and relatively low temperature transformations

Where Did the Name ‘Jadeite’ Come From?

The name ‘jadeite’ originates from Spanish ‘piedra de ijada’ (stone of the side), via French ‘jade’ and Latin ‘ilia’.Â

Cultural Significance

‣ Symbolism in ancient cultures
‣ Modern-day appreciation

Color Variations of Jadeite

Jadeite’s vibrant colors include apple-green, emerald-green, bluish-green, leek-green, purplish blue, greenish white, white, black, and rare lavender, blue, or violet hues, often with green spots and banding.

Green Varieties

Apple-green

‣ Emerald-green
‣ Bluish-green
‣ Leek-green

Non-Green Varieties

‣ Purplish blue
‣ Greenish white
‣ White
‣ Black
‣ Rare lavender, blue, or violet hues

Jadeite Jade Classification: Understanding Types A, B, and C

Type A Jadeite

‣ Natural, untreated jadeite/nephrite
‣ Possible wax coating

Type B Jadeite

‣ Bleached
‣ Polymer-treated

Type C Jadeite

‣ Dyed

Jadeite Deposits Around the World

Primary Deposits

‣ Myanmar
‣ Guatemala

Secondary Deposits

‣ US
‣ Costa Rica
‣ Mexico
‣ Japan