Where is Jade found?
Jade (Nephrite or Jadeite)
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Open the appJade occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Jade
Myanmar (Burma)
Primary source of gem-quality jadeite, particularly the highly prized 'Imperial Jade'. Found in alluvial deposits and in situ within serpentinite-associated metasomatic rocks in the Kachin State.
China (Xinjiang, Liaoning)
Historically significant source of nephrite, particularly from the Kunlun Mountains (Hotan/Khotan jade) and the Xiuyan region. Found in alluvial deposits and in situ within serpentinized ultramafic rocks.
Russia (Sayan Mountains)
Important source of high-quality nephrite, often with vibrant green colors. Found in serpentinite bodies.
Canada (British Columbia)
Major producer of nephrite, often found as large boulders in glacial till and in situ within serpentinized ultramafic rocks.
Guatemala
Historical source of jadeite for Mesoamerican cultures. Found in serpentinite-associated metamorphic rocks.
New Zealand (South Island)
Known as 'Pounamu' by the Māori, a significant source of nephrite. Found in metamorphic rocks associated with serpentinite.
USA (California, Wyoming, Alaska)
Various localities produce nephrite, often associated with serpentinite belts. California also has minor jadeite occurrences.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Focus on areas with known occurrences of serpentinized ultramafic rocks (for nephrite) or blueschist facies metamorphic rocks and serpentinite mélanges (for jadeite). Look for contact zones between different rock types.
- Alluvial Deposits. Many significant jade finds are in secondary alluvial deposits (riverbeds, gravels) where erosion has concentrated durable jade boulders and pebbles. Look for rounded, dense, and unusually tough stones.
- Density Test. Jade (both types) is notably dense. A simple 'heft test' can help distinguish it from lighter look-alikes. Nephrite specific gravity: 2.9-3.1; Jadeite specific gravity: 3.3-3.5.
- Toughness Test (Caution). Jade's exceptional toughness means it is very difficult to break or scratch with common tools. While not recommended for damaging specimens, this property is a key identifier. It will resist scratching by steel.
- Visual Inspection. Look for a characteristic greasy to waxy luster on unpolished surfaces and a fine-grained, compact texture. Translucency is also a good indicator, especially for higher quality material.
- Field Identification Kit. Carry a hand lens (10x), a steel knife or file (for hardness testing, though jade is harder), and a small bottle of water to observe wet luster and color more clearly.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Green (most common), white, lavender, yellow, black, grey, orange, brown.
- Luster:
- Greasy to vitreous (polished), dull to waxy (rough).
- Streak:
- White.
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