What's the Difference Between Jadeite and Nephrite?

Nephrite is slightly softer than jadeite -- nephrite is 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, while jadeite is 6.5 to 7. They have quite different chemical compositions as well: nephrite is a calcium magnesium iron silicate while jadeite is a sodium aluminum silicate. As a result, the two minerals also have different densities.

How can you tell the difference between jadeite and nephrite?

The easiest way to tell the difference between jadeite and nephrite jade is by color. You're probably most familiar with the green color of jadeite, but this gemstone comes in almost every color of the rainbow. Jadeite can be white, pale apple-green, pink, lavender, and even dark blue.

How do I know if my jade is nephrite?

Identifying the varieties of jade is often considered to be quite easy for most experts. Nephrite can frequently be distinguished from jadeite by its lower level of luster and translucency. Nephrite's luster is slightly more greasy to resinous, while jadeite's is more vitreous.