Gemstone profile and identification guide
Black Jade
Black Jade is a Black silicate prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
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Overview
Black Jade is a Black silicate prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Black Jade
Scientific classification: Silicate
Hardness: 6.5 Mohs
Transparency: translucent
Lustre: silky
Crystal system: Monoclinic / Orthorhombic
Primary colour: Black
Secondary colour: Not specified
Colour family: Neutrals
Physical Properties
Hardness category: medium
Hardness value: 6.5 Mohs
Chemical composition: Sodium aluminum silicate (jadeite) or calcium magnesium silicate (nephrite)
Crystal system: Monoclinic / Orthorhombic
Common locations: Myanmar, China, Guatemala, Canada
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Black Jade is classified within the neutrals palette. Primary colour: black.
Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.
Formation
Forms by metamorphism of ultramafic rocks under high pressure, often in subduction zones.
Origin
Myanmar, China, Guatemala, Canada
Uses
Best for: Jewellery, displays, and design accents.
Ideal uses: Versatile collections and polished showcases.
Care
Avoid strong heat and acids. Clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
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Black Jade FAQ
How can I identify Black Jade?
Compare hardness (6.5 Mohs), crystal system (Monoclinic / Orthorhombic), colour profile, and lustre (silky) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Black Jade appear in?
Black Jade is classified within the neutrals palette. Primary colour: black.
Where is Black Jade commonly used?
Versatile collections and polished showcases.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
Reference data from GIA and Mindat mineral records.