amorphous Inosilicates
Jadeite (Massive (gem-quality))
NaAlSi2O6
Quick Facts
Hardness
6.5
Specific Gravity
3.25
Refractive Index
1.654
Optical Character
Biaxial +
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Jadeite
#! System: Monoclinic (2/m)
#! Habit: Massive interlocking aggregate (gem quality)
amorphous[cryptocrystalline]:{massive}
amorphous
2/m
{massive}
Physical Properties
Crystal Systemamorphous
Hardness (Mohs)6.5
Specific Gravity3.25
CleavageGood {110} at ~87°
FractureSplintery (tough due to interlocking fibrous texture)
LustreVitreous to greasy
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.654
Birefringence0.013
Optical CharacterBiaxial +
Dispersion0.012
Colours
Imperial greenLavenderWhiteYellowOrangeBlack
Localities
Myanmar (Burma)GuatemalaJapanRussiaUSA (California)
Common Inclusions
Fibrous interlocking textureBlack chromite spots (in green)Fracture fillings
Known Treatments
Polymer impregnation (B jade)Dyeing (C jade)Wax treatment (traditional)
Crystal Forms
massive
Diagnostic Features
Interlocking granular texture; high toughness; higher SG and RI than nephrite; absorption at 437nm
Interactive Preview
Open this crystal in the CDL Playground to rotate, export, and explore in 3D.
Open in Playground #! Species: Jadeite
#! System: Monoclinic (2/m)
#! Habit: Massive interlocking aggregate (gem quality)
amorphous[cryptocrystalline]:{massive}
Related Minerals
Other minerals in the amorphous system
