THE MATERIAL LIBRARY
Jade
A gem name encompassing jadeite and nephrite.
Colors & patterns
Green, white, lavender, yellow, brown, black and other colors.
Typical origins
Myanmar and Guatemala are jadeite sources; nephrite sources include China, Canada and New Zealand.
Hardness
About 6–7, depending on type
Choosing & setting this material
Jade is valued for toughness as well as color. Specify jadeite or nephrite and ask about dyeing, bleaching and polymer impregnation; many jade trade names describe substitutes.
Care & cleaning
Clean gently with lukewarm water, a little mild soap and a soft cloth, then dry. Avoid steam, ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes, especially when treatments are unknown.
Origins above describe typical sources of the material, not the origin of an illustrated or stocked stone. Hardness measures scratch resistance, not resistance to breaking. Confirm the identity and treatments of the actual piece.
Further reading: Material reference · GIA: gem treatments