Home > Nephrite

Nephrite

A species of Tremolite, Also known as Nephrite Jade, New Zealand Jade, Spinach Jade, Lapis Nephriticus, Talcum Nephriticus

Nephrite is one of two minerals referred to as jade. Though it was first used for tools and weapons, nephrite is also used in creating artistic or ritual objects in green and other colors. It also makes a durable gemstone. It symbolized moral integrity in ancient China and is esteemed in Mesoamerican and New Zealand Maori cultures.

Hardness:

6 - 6.5

Density:

2.9 - 3.02 g/cm³

General Info About Nephrite

Instantly Identify Rocks with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock/gemstone/mineral ID and properties analysis, gaining quick insights on characteristics, market value, collecting tips, care, real vs fake, and health risks, etc.

Download the App for Free

Physical Properties of Nephrite

Texture

Non-foliated

Luster

Dull, Vitreous, Greasy

Diaphaneity

Translucent to opaque

Colors

Various colors, often green, gray-green, reddish-brown, black

Magnetism

Potentially Magnetic

Fracture

Splintery

Streak

White

Hardness

6 - 6.5 , Hard

Density

2.9 - 3.02 g/cm³, Normal Weight

AI rock expert in your pocket

Chemical Properties of Nephrite

Formula

Ca₂(Mg, Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

Elements listed

Ca, H, Mg, O, Si

Common Impurities

Optical Properties of Nephrite

Refractive Index

1.600-1.627

Birefringence

0.027

Pleochroism

None

Optical Character

Biaxial negative

Discover the Value of Nephrite

Discovering the Diverse Values of Rocks

Unveiling the Rarity, Aesthetics, and Economic Significance of Rocks

Download the App for Free

Rarity

Rare

Collection Recommendation

4.4 out of 5

Popularity

Aesthetic

4.5

Rarity

4.4

Sci-Cultural Value

4.1

The Market Price of Nephrite

Exploring the Market Prices for a Variety of Rocks

Delving into the market values and investment potential of a wide variety of rocks

Download the App for Free

Color, purity, luster, and weight are the decisive factors affecting the price of nephrite. At about 2.5 cm across, the price of a tumbled stone with average quality is usually $2-$10/piece.

Gemstone Price

Price

$2 ~ $15 /ct

How to Care for Nephrite?

Instantly Identify Rocks and Learn How to Care for Them with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock/gemstone/mineral ID and properties analysis, gaining quick insights on toughness, stability, usage, storage, cleaning, selection, etc.

Download the App for Free

Durability

Nondurable

Scratch resistance

Poor

Toughness of Nephrite

Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent

Nephrite's interlocking fibrous structure contributes to its excellent toughness, making it highly resistant to breaking and chipping during daily use.

Stability of Nephrite

Sensitive

Stable

Nephrite is considered stable for daily use as it resists most environmental factors and routine wear. It requires caution with high heat and harsh chemicals but remains largely unaffected by other common conditions.

More Care Tips of Nephrite

Characteristics of Nephrite

Your Comprehensive Rock Characteristics Guide

In-depth exploration of rock types, features, and formation aspects

Download the App for Free

Cultural Significance of Nephrite

Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Rock Culture

Unveiling the mysteries of rock culture - exploring uses, history, and healing properties, etc

Download the App for Free

Uses of Nephrite

Nephrite is often used for jewelry in western China. The stone has a long history in the region. Carvings and jewelry were often placed in tombs signaling the wealth and importance of the deceased. Its use was common during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Religious artworks were and still are carved from nephrite.

The Meaning of Nephrite

Nephrite was known as "kidney stone" for ages. It was believed that this stone had the ability to heal kidney and loin diseases. Nephrite is also found in archaic Chinese burial sites, as the stone was believed to secure the passage to Heaven if buried with the deceased.