Where is Jade found?
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 high-quality jadeite, particularly 'Imperial Jade', found in the Kachin State, especially around Tawmaw and Hpakan.
China
Historically significant source of nephrite, particularly from the Kunlun Mountains (Hotan/Khotan jade) and Liaoning province. Also has some jadeite deposits.
Russia
Significant deposits of nephrite, especially in the Sayan Mountains and Lake Baikal region.
New Zealand
Renowned for its nephrite, known as 'Pounamu' or 'Greenstone', found on the South Island, particularly in riverbeds and coastal areas.
Canada
Major producer of nephrite, primarily from British Columbia, including large boulder deposits.
Guatemala
Historical source of jadeite for Mesoamerican cultures, rediscovered in the Motagua Valley. Produces a wide range of colors, including lavender and blue.
United States
Nephrite found in Wyoming, California, and Alaska. Jadeite found in limited quantities in California.
Collecting tips
- Look for Associated Rocks. Nephrite is often found in or near serpentinite bodies, talc schists, and other ultramafic rocks. Jadeite is associated with blueschist facies metamorphic rocks and serpentinites in subduction zone settings.
- Riverbeds and Alluvial Deposits. Both nephrite and jadeite are extremely tough and resistant to weathering, so they are frequently found as water-worn boulders and pebbles in riverbeds and alluvial deposits, often far from their primary source.
- Density Test. Jade (especially jadeite) feels surprisingly heavy for its size. A specific gravity test can help differentiate it from imitations. Jadeite (3.30-3.38) is denser than nephrite (2.90-3.03).
- Hardness Test (Caution). While jade is tough, its hardness (Nephrite: 6-6.5, Jadeite: 6.5-7) can help distinguish it from softer imitations like serpentine (2.5-5). However, avoid scratching valuable specimens.
- Translucency and Luster. Genuine jade often exhibits a characteristic translucency and a greasy to vitreous luster when polished. Hold a thin piece up to a light source to observe its internal structure and translucency.
- Sound Test (for experienced collectors). When gently tapped, high-quality jade can produce a clear, resonant, bell-like sound due to its dense, compact structure. This is a subjective test and requires experience.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Green, white, black, lavender, yellow, brown, red, blue
- Luster:
- Vitreous to greasy, waxy
- Streak:
- White
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