Jade (Jadeite)
Image: Gary Todd (CC0)
Mineral NameJade (Jadeite)
Chemical FormulaNaAlSi₂O₆
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood, prismatic {110} at nearly 90 degrees
Fracturesplintery
Specific Gravity3.33
Colorswhite, green, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, black
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityMyanmar (Burma), Guatemala, Russia, Japan, California (USA)
Mineral Groupsilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental carvings, art objects, tools
Associated Mineralsserpentine, albite, glaucophane, lawsonite, omphacite
Rarityrare
Description
The image displays a finely carved sculpture of a cabbage, showcasing the mineral's characteristic translucent quality and a beautiful gradient from white to vibrant green.
Geological Context
Jadeite forms under high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic conditions, typically found in subduction zones within serpentinite rocks.
