Jade, Lavender, Nephrite, Natural, Chip Sizes 10x4, One 32in Strand

 Jade, Lavender, Nephrite, Natural, Chip Sizes 10x4, One 32in Strand

There are two types of Jade: Nephrite and Jadeite. They both have similar properties and appearances, but Nephrite is more common, and therefore, the less expensive of the two. For centuries, Jadeite and Nephrite were considered the same. They were not identified as different until 1863. The two stones differ in color and hardness. Jadeite is harder, rating a 7 on the hardness scale, while Nephrite rates only a 6.5. Jadeite comes in virtually every color while Nephrite has a more limited range of color.

Nephrite Jade is one of the two distinct minerals commonly known as Jade. Nephrite Jade is a mineral composed of highly dense, fibrous crystal masses. While Nephrite does not match the variety or the fine green colors found in Jadeite, it does occur in attractive colors, including green.

Nephrite is the Jade that was first used in China for weapons, and later for ornaments and most popularly used now in carvings, jewelry, and decorations. There are large Nephrite deposits throughout China. The most economically important green Nephrite sources are found in China, British Columbia (BC Jade), and Siberia.

Nephrite Jade is Alaska and Wyoming’s state gemstone.

Hardness 7 

This is a natural stone that has had no treatment other than cutting, and polishing in China.