| Jade - Nephrite Gemstone Information Information * Loose gemstones * Jewelry links Jade is the gemstone representing the 12th wedding anniversary. Nephrite Jade is derived from the Latin word lapis nephriticus, meaning "stone of the kidney". Jade was considered a prized gem in both Chinese and Central American cultures. In the 16th century, the Chinese believed that ingesting jade powder would prolong life and strengthen the lungs, heart, and vocal chords. It has also been told that handling jade can help one relax by absorbing some of its secret virtue into the body. |
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ENHANCEMENT CODE N Click to view AGTA code. PROPERTIES Refractive Index 1.606-1.632 Hardness = 6-6.5 (Moh's Scale) Specific Gravity =2.95 Species - Nephrite Optic Character - Aggregate Phenomena - None WARNINGS FOR CARE Ultrasonic: Safe Steamer: Safe Heat: Poor; no repairs near stone Chemicals that harm: Warm acids |
Crystal Structure  Crystal system: Monoclinic, fine fibrous aggregate. MAJOR SOURCES Taiwan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, China, US, USSR |
Birthstones | |
| January | Garnet | ||
| February | Amethyst | ||
| March | Aquamarine | ||
| April | Diamond | ||
| May | Emerald | ||
| June | Pearl/Alexandrite | ||
| July | Ruby | ||
| August | Peridot | ||
| September | Sapphire | ||
| October | Opal/Tourmaline | ||
| November | Topaz or Citrine | ||
| December | Blue Topaz or Zircon | ||
| Cabochon is the popular cut used in jewelry for jade. Cabochons are smooth polished surfaces not faceted. |
