Nephrite
Last updated: April 2026
A variety of actinolite-tremolite, known for its toughness and greasy luster.
Nephrite has a specific gravity of 2.95 and a refractive index of 1.600–1.627, with a Mohs hardness of 6.0–6.5. It is aggregate.
Physical & Optical Properties
RI Range1.600–1.627
SG Range2.90–3.03
SG Typical2.95
Hardness (Mohs)6–6.5
Crystal SystemAggregate
Optic CharacterAggregate
Dispersion0.000
Fluorescence LWInert
Fluorescence SWInert
Chelsea FilterInert
PleochroismNone
ColorsGreen, Colorless, Black, Brown
SpeciesNephrite
Key Differentiators
- Fibrous, felted texture
- Lower SG than jadeite
- Extremely tough
Common Simulants
- Jadeite jade: Jadeite: RI 1.666; SG 3.34; higher luster (vitreous vs waxy); takes a higher polish.
- Serpentine: Serpentine: much softer (3–4 Mohs); SG 2.57; more waxy luster; scratches easily with knife.
- Aventurine quartz: Aggregate DR; RI 1.544–1.553; SG 2.65; sparkly aventurescence; lighter feel.
Commonly Confused With
Commonly confused with: Jadeite, Serpentine, Aventurine Quartz, Amazonite, Aventurine, Prehnite.
Treatments
- Dyed (to intensify green)
- Wax or oil impregnation
Price Context
Natural — low ($/ct)$10
Natural — high ($/ct)$200
NotePer carat; New Zealand and BC nephrite standard; 'mutton fat' white nephrite highly valued in Asian markets
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
Related Comparisons
Measurement Guides
Identifying a nephrite? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
Try GemID Free →Studying for the GIA, FGA, or FEEG practical? Nephrite is one of the 130 species in GemID’s drill and exam pool — practice identifying it from its measured properties under timed exam conditions.
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