Jadeite

Jadeite
Chemical composition	NaAl(SiO3)2
Crystal system	Monoclinic
Habit	Polycrystalline
Fracture	Flintery
Hardness	6.5 -7
Specific gravity	3.30 - 3.37
Lustre	Greasy to vitreous

Jadeite is made up of interlocking pyroxene crystals. It occurs in a vary wide range of colors like green, lilac, white, pink, brown, red, blue, black, orange and yellow. The most prized color is a rich emerald green and is called Imperial Jade. Its green color is due to its chromium content and can be distinguished with a Chelsea (jadeite) filter. Jadeite is believed to prevent/cure hip and kidney ailments.

Enhancements

Common enhancements to jadeite:

• Fracture filling - wax - conceal cracks and fractures
• Coatings - wax - to improve luster
• Staining - color improvement through dyes
• Bleaching - removes stains
• Polymer impregnation - improves luster and to stabilize piece after bleaching

Occurrence

The most important source of jadeite is Myanmar but Guatemala, Japan and the USA (California) are also important sources

Sources consulted

• Smithsonian Handbooks, Gemstones, Second Edition 2002