Jadeite
Jadeite – natural stone
Jadeite is a rare mineral that is a sodium and aluminum silicate and belongs to the pyroxene group. The name “jadeite” comes from the French word “jade”, which means jade, or from the Spanish “piedra de ijada” – stone of the flank. Jadeite mineral is found in Burma, USA, China, Brazil, Mexico, India, Australia and Guatemala. It is usually found in association with other minerals such as garnet, albite, aegirine or diopside in crystalline schists and other metamorphic rocks. The hardness of jadeite stones on the Mohs scale is 6.5 – 7, while its density is 3.2 to 3.3 g/cm³. Characteristic features of this mineral include excellent cleavage, uneven, conchoidal fracture and vitreous luster. As for the crystallographic system, jadeite stones occur in the form of monoclinic crystals.
Filters
Active filters:
Active filters:
Jadeite – color, varieties
Jadeite occurs in a wide range of colors – from white, yellow, green, pink to purple, blue, red or black. The most popular variety of jadeite is green – this color is due to chromium impurities. In the past, jadeite was often confused with nephrite because of its similar appearance. It was not until 1863 that it was discovered that they were two different minerals, despite their very similar appearance. The color of jadeite is more intense than that of nephrite and they also have different properties. Because of its color, jadeite is often confused with serpentine, green agate, vesuvianite or chalcedony. Some of the most popular varieties of jadeite include the aforementioned green jadeite, as well as:
- chloromelanite – occurs in colors ranging from green to black,
- imperial jadeite – the most valuable variety in an intense emerald green color,
- astridite – a type of jadeite with a dark green hue,
- white jadeite,
- yellow jadeite,
- lavender jadeite,
- red jadeite.
Jadeite – uses
Due to its hardness, jadeite has been used since ancient times for the production of ornaments, figurines, weapons and tools. The jadeite mineral is also important in science as an indicator of rock transformation conditions and characteristics. For natural stone enthusiasts, it is a sought-after and valuable collector’s gem. Interestingly, jadeite also finds application in cosmetology, where it is used in body massage, production of jade rollers and combs. Jadeite is most commonly used as a jewelry stone because of its durability. Thanks to this property, jadeite jewelry will serve you for many years and keep its beautiful appearance. In our offer you can find jadeite cabochons that can be used to create stunning jewelry designs.
