Global Gemology - Rare Gems & Jewels
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NEPHRITE

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High quality nephrite jade set in a simple handmade setting
High quality nephrite set in a simple handmade setting.
Species:  Nephrite
Mohs Hardness:  6 to 6.5 out of 10
Color:  Translucent to opaque, light to dark grayish green, possibly with lighter or darker mottling
RI:  1.606 to 1.632 (+0.009 / -0.006)
Birefringence:  Usually not detectable
SR/DR/AGG:  AGG
Fluorescence:  Inert
SG:  2.95 (+0.15 / -0.05)
Routine Treatments:  None
Additional Enhancements:  Waxing, impregnation

Nephrite Facts

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Vintage double strand akoya pearl & nephrite bead necklace with an incredible, platinum and 18k yellow gold filigree spider web clasp set with diamonds.  Purchased from Eddie Jameson Custom Jewels, with original box and receipt.
Gorgeous nephrite & cultured pearl necklace with fancy spiderweb clasp

There are two different types of jade:  jadeite and nephrite.

Nephrite's colors tend to be more muted than jadeite's, and are often mottled or streaked.​

​Jade has deep cultural roots in Chinese culture and is often carved into symbolic figures such as Buddhas or pierced discs.  

Jade is tough, but not hard.  Jade is a relatively soft gem, making them great gems for carving.  However, jade is very tough (i.e. difficult to break) and was used as knives and axe heads.

Nephrite rings when struck.  Nephrite was used as wind chimes at the imperial court in China.​

​Jade is the 12th wedding anniversary gemstone.
​

Nephrite Gallery

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All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)

  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • SHOP
  • SERVICES
    • APPRAISALS
    • EXPERT WITNESS TESTIMONY
    • SELL YOUR JEWELRY
  • GEMOLOGY
    • GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
    • THE ART OF GEMOLOGY
  • JEWELRY EDUCATION
    • DIAMOND FACTS
    • JEWELER DIRECTORY
    • JEWELRY PERIODS
    • POCKET WATCHES
    • NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
  • GLOSSARY