Gem Minerals
Jade
What it is
A cultural term encompassing both jadeite and nephrite. For thousands of years, jade was valued above gold in Chinese civilization. True jade is identified by its extreme toughness — it can't be chipped like glass but must be carved with abrasives.
How it forms
Both jade varieties form in metamorphic environments. Jade boulders are often found in rivers, where weaker surrounding rock has eroded away, leaving the tough jade behind.
Jadeite or nephrite (see Jadeite/Nephrite)
