Types of Trade Jade

Jade is one of those stones most people know. Used for centuries and known for being tough enough to make bells and musical instruments from yet it can be easy scratched or carved.  Many think they can identify it easily but they may be wrong. 

First Jade come in two different types Jadeite and nephrite. Both have a monoclinic crystal structure with a vistreous luster, can come in mixed colors and are translucent to opaque. Then the differences start: 

Nepharite's chemical makeup of Ca2(Mg,Fe)5(Si4O11)2(OH)2  jadeite is Na(Al,Fe3+)Si2O6. 

Their hardness differs, Jadeite has a hardness of 6.5-7 vrs nephrite 6-6.5. 

Their specific gravity/ density is jadeite averaging 3.34, nephrite averages 2.95

Nephrite is normally found in larger masses, so it is the common jade in sculptures.

Many fall in love with the look of jade but not the price. Our market,  today and past, has answered that need with other stones as jade simulations. Such stones are given trade names meant to convey they are NOT jade. Some jewelry designers who purchase them are so used to hearing it they assume it means location mined. So what are they? Here is a short list:

African Jade is quartz
American Jade is idocrase
Ching Hai Jade is a blend of dolomite and fuchsite 
Indian Jade aventurine
Korean Jade is serpentine
Malaysian Jade is serpentine
Mexican Jade is quartz marble
Mountain Jade is dolomite
New Jade is serpentine
Transvaal Jade is hydrogrossular garnet

Trade jade can be a lovely alternative on a budget. As a lover of all gemstones, I am not saying they are not to be purchased. I have seen amazing necklaces and earrings made with them. What I am saying is if you are purchasing jade for investment, know what you are buying.