What is jadeite?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Jadeite is a sodium aluminium silicate mineral and the finer, rarer of the two minerals known as jade. It is harder than nephrite, rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, and at its finest produces the vivid, translucent apple-green colour known as imperial jade, which is among the most valuable gemstone material in the world. Jadeite also occurs in lavender, white, black, orange and other colours depending on trace minerals, and Myanmar is the primary source of gem-quality material. Fine jadeite jewellery, particularly carved bangles and pendants, is central to Chinese jewellery culture.
Frequently asked questions
- What is imperial jade?
- Imperial jade is the highest quality jadeite, characterised by an intense, semi-transparent emerald green colour with good clarity and no visible mottling. The colour comes from trace amounts of chromium. It is the rarest and most expensive variety, and fine imperial jade pieces regularly achieve very high prices at auction.
- What is the difference between jadeite and nephrite?
- Jadeite is the harder and rarer of the two, capable of producing the vivid greens of imperial jade, while nephrite is more common and shows the softer, more muted greens and whites associated with New Zealand pounamu and much of the jade in antiquities. Jadeite is generally more highly valued in the fine jewellery market.
- Is jadeite a good gemstone for everyday wear?
- Jadeite is notably tough, meaning it resists fracture well even though it is not the hardest stone, and bangles and rings in jadeite have been worn daily for generations across East Asia. It can scratch if dragged across something harder, so a little care is sensible, but it is a very practical stone for jewellery worn regularly.
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