Appearance
Jadeite comes in several hues, the most sought-after being green, however it may also be found in lavender, white, yellow, and black. Iron and chromium are two elements in jadeite’s chemical makeup that give it its green color. The most prized jadeite is called “imperial jade,” because it has a deep, transparent emerald-green hue.
The capacity of jadeite to display a translucency and texture that is highly valued by craftspeople is one of its distinctive qualities. The smooth, polished surface of the best jadeite is almost waxy to the touch. Under a microscope, jadeite reveals a distinctive fibrous structure that contributes to its hardness and longevity.
Geographical Distribution
Significant jadeite occurrences are rare and isolated. Only high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic rock found on continental borders contains it. Here, it could appear as scattered grains, veins, or pods. Deposits can be found in Guatemala, California, Japan, the Alps, Burma, and Russia. Jadeite is related to glaucophane, aragonite, muscovite, lawsonite, and quartz in the Franciscan Complex of California. On the other hand, lapidary quality instances are nearly unique to Myanmar. The Uyu River’s stream boulders continue to be a significant source of jadeite.
History
The most desired form of jade is dominated by the mineral jadeite. In traditional Chinese culture, this was highly valued and utilized to create an array of exquisite ornaments and utensils.
Chemical Composition
With the chemical formula NaAlSi3O4, jadeite is a pyroxene mineral that is rich in aluminum and sodium.
Uses
Jadeite is highly prized in many cultures and is mostly utilized in jewelry-making. Because it is seen as a status and wealth symbol in East Asian nations like China, Japan, and Myanmar, it is particularly well-liked there. For thousands of years, jadeite has been highly valued in China, where it is frequently carved into elaborate figurines, jewelry, and other beautiful items.
In many traditional Chinese medical procedures, jadeite is utilized in addition to jewelry since it is said to have therapeutic and medicinal qualities. Because of its durability and abrasion resistance, jadeite is also used in the manufacturing of specialized tools and equipment.
Table
