Where is Jade found?
Nephrite (Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2) or Jadeite (NaAlSi2O6)
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
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 high-quality jadeite, particularly the imperial green variety, found in alluvial deposits and in situ within serpentinite bodies in the Kachin State.
China (Xinjiang, Liaoning)
Historically significant source of nephrite, particularly from the Kunlun Mountains (Hotan/Khotan jade) and Liaoning province. Also some jadeite occurrences.
New Zealand (South Island)
Major source of nephrite, known as 'Pounamu' by the Māori people, found in metamorphic rocks and as river boulders.
Russia (Sayan Mountains)
Significant deposits of nephrite, often with attractive green and black varieties.
Canada (British Columbia)
Large deposits of nephrite, often found in massive boulders in alpine regions.
Guatemala
Historical source of jadeite for Mesoamerican cultures, rediscovered in the Motagua Valley, with a range of colors including lavender and blue.
United States (California, Wyoming, Alaska)
Nephrite deposits are found in various locations, notably in California (e.g., Big Sur) and Wyoming. Jadeite occurrences are rare but known in California.
Collecting tips
- Look for specific geological environments. For nephrite, search in areas with serpentinized ultramafic rocks or tremolite-actinolite schists. For jadeite, focus on blueschist facies metamorphic terrains, often associated with serpentinite in ancient or active subduction zones.
- Check for toughness and density. Jade is exceptionally tough and dense. A piece of jade will feel heavier than expected for its size and will be very difficult to scratch or break. A 'clink' test (gently tapping two pieces together) can produce a distinctive, resonant sound for genuine jade.
- Observe luster and texture. Genuine jade typically has a vitreous to greasy luster when polished, and a smooth, often waxy feel. The texture is cryptocrystalline, meaning individual crystals are not visible to the naked eye.
- Perform a scratch test (with caution). While not definitive, jade (both nephrite and jadeite) is harder than steel (Mohs 6-7). A steel knife should not scratch it. However, this test can damage the specimen and should be used with care on a less visible area.
- Consider specific gravity. Jadeite (3.30-3.38) is denser than nephrite (2.90-3.03). This can be a useful differentiating factor for experienced collectors using hydrostatic weighing.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Wide range, commonly green, white, black, lavender, yellow, brown.
- Luster:
- Vitreous to greasy, sometimes waxy.
- Streak:
- White.
Explore Jade
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.