Green Jade

Extended geology and mineralogy

The term "jade" refers to two mineralogically distinct stones: nephrite and jadeite. Nephrite is a compact amphibole, primarily tremolite-actinolite, with a monoclinic crystal system. Jadeite is a pyroxene, also monoclinic. Beyond these, many stones marketed as "jade" are serpentine-based or include tremolite-rich material that resembles jade in appearance and durability without being pure nephrite or jadeite. Peruvian green jade falls mostly into the serpentine category and is not true jade.

The green color in jade comes from trace iron, chromium, or other metals in the crystal structure. Peruvian material typically shows greens ranging from pale celadon to deep forest, sometimes with subtle striping or layering. The formation process in metamorphic zones creates compact, workable material. Mohs hardness sits between 5 and 6.5 depending on the exact mineral composition. Specific gravity runs about 2.2 to 2.9 for serpentine, compared with about 2.95 for nephrite and 3.3 to 3.5 for jadeite. The stone's density, even at relatively modest hardness, makes it durable for everyday wear and resistant to fracturing under normal handling.

Jade varieties and regional differences

True nephrite forms in metamorphic deposits worldwide. Canadian nephrite from British Columbia is known for deep green tones and high density; it is considered among the finest nephrite by traditional standards. Russian nephrite from Siberia produces similar qualities and has been valued in jewelry for centuries. New Zealand pounamu is a nephrite variety with cultural significance in Maori tradition; the material ranges from pale greenstone to very dark jade. Jadeite, the second major jade mineral, occurs primarily in Myanmar (Burma) and Guatemala, producing vivid, sometimes translucent greens highly prized in carving and jewelry.

Peruvian green jade, in contrast, is typically serpentine rather than true jade. This does not make it inferior; it means the stone has its own set of properties, treatment history, and sourcing story. Understanding the actual mineralogy of your jade is essential for knowing how to care for it and what you are purchasing. Marketing all green jade stones under the same "jade" label obscures important differences.

Treatment practices in the jade market

Type B jadeite treatment involves impregnating the stone with polymers or resin to fill surface fractures, improving appearance and durability. Type C jadeite is dyed, either to enhance existing color or to alter it entirely. Both treatments are common in the jadeite market, particularly for lower-grade material. Type A jadeite, marketed as untreated, commands higher prices. Nephrite and serpentine-based jade see far less treatment overall because the material's value lies in color and texture rather than clarity. Some lower-grade green jade is dyed to deepen color or create more uniform appearance, but this is less routine than with jadeite.

We disclose all treatments on the product page. Untreated material may show subtle variation in tone and texture, which are authentic properties of untreated jade rather than defects.

Sourcing and labor

Peruvian green jade mining is small-scale to medium-scale. Most operations involve hand-mining and on-site sorting, with local artisans handling polishing and finishing. We work with suppliers who prioritize fair wages, safe conditions, and material quality over volume. Labor and environmental practices vary by operation; we prioritize documented suppliers with transparent practices over relationships where conditions are unclear.

Pricing and market notes

Grade A tumbled green jade from Peru is the entry point, with price depending on size and finish quality. Hand-polished pieces sit a step higher. Palm stones and larger carvings scale upward from there depending on weight and finish. Very large display pieces or high-carving work sit at the top of the range. Pricing reflects grade, origin transparency, and sourcing care.

Price alone proves nothing about green jade, so ask about origin and treatment whatever a piece costs. Pieces from unknown sources or without origin disclosure turn up at every price. Exceptionally high prices often reflect artistry or carving work rather than the jade mineralogy itself.