On this page
UnderstandWhat it is, what people ask, how far this page goes
Natural inorganic gem materials · Mineral / gemstone variety · Natural; treatment common (require certificate to distinguish)
Hetian Yu / Nephrite
Also known asHetian Jade (not to be used as a name) · Hotan jade (not to be used as a name)
A variety name listed under Nephrite in GB/T 16552-2017 Table A.2, made mainly of tremolite–actinolite aggregate; the name does not prove origin. This page compares how the major standards and institutions name it, what must be disclosed when selling it, whether it can be worn every day, how it is treated and identified, and which source each conclusion comes from.
Price, rarity and origin are outside the scope of this wiki.
What this page can answer
This page covers
- How Hetian Yu / Nephrite forms and what gives its colourFormation setting, process and timescale, each finding graded and sourced
- How to identify Hetian Yu / NephriteIdentification points from the research literature; how far lab testing can go
- Treatments and enhancements of Hetian Yu / Nephrite2 registered treatments: status, stability, how common they are and identification leads
- Caring for and wearing Hetian Yu / NephriteCleaning, heat, chemicals and light, as the cited sources give them; durability indicators and wearing advice
- Hardness, density and refractive index of Hetian Yu / NephriteEach value with its source and check date
- Hetian Yu / Nephrite in English, Chinese and Japanese; national standard namesNames in four languages, the GB/T standard name and the suggested listing name, names in national standards; and: Do GIA, FTC, CIBJO and Gem-A use the same wording for it?
- Name origin and history of Hetian Yu / NephriteWhere the name comes from; how people have used it, with museum objects
- Listing and disclosing Hetian Yu / NephriteThe listing name to use; what must be disclosed before sale
- Standard clauses that define Hetian Yu / NephriteWhich clause defines it, each cross-checked
What we cannot conclude
- Whether one particular bead is natural, treated or synthetic — only a laboratory report can settle that.
- Geographic origin, unless an origin report accompanies the item.
- Price, rarity or investment value: this wiki covers naming and disclosure only.
Material research: formation, causes and history
What authoritative sources say about how this material forms, what causes its colour and optical effects, where its name comes from and how people have used it. Each statement carries an evidence grade and its sources; it describes the material in general, not any specific piece.
How it forms
- Natural nephrite (schematic)
- Magnified: interlocking fibres
If you reuse this animation, please credit LumaLark Wiki and link to this pageLicense: CC BY 4.0
Scene-by-scene transcript (6 scenes, with evidence grades and sources)
The caption of each scene in the animation above, with its evidence grade and sources.
Scene 1What Hetian jade is
In Chinese nomenclature, Hetian Yu refers to nephrite: a fine-grained, fibrous (interlocking/felted) aggregate of tremolite–actinolite amphibole formed by metamorphism.
Scope: Covers the material-level origin of "Hetian yu" as a Chinese nephrite variety name/trade name; the name is not treated as an identification conclusion about the producing region or a specific sample.
Sources
Scene 2Setting: hydrothermal metasomatism
Hydrothermal metasomatic (hydrothermal-metamorphic) setting: silica-rich fluids replacing dolomite-rich rocks, or calcium-rich fluids reacting with serpentinites.
Nephrite arises through hydrothermal metamorphism (metasomatism): either calcium-rich fluids interact with serpentinites, or silica-rich fluids infiltrate dolomite-rich rocks
Evidence grade AScope: Describes the natural genesis of the underlying material (tremolite–actinolite nephrite) only; it does not establish a specimen's origin, treatment, or colour subcategory.
Scene 3Dolomite route: silica-rich fluid moves in
Fluid metasomatism: silica-rich fluid enters dolomitic rock, or calcium-rich fluid reacts with serpentinite (metasomatism).
Scene 4The dolomite-route reaction
Tremolite–actinolite crystallises: for the dolomite route the reaction can be written 5 dolomite + 8 aqueous silica + water → tremolite + 3 calcite + 7 aqueous carbon dioxide; the sources give no reaction for the serpentinite route.
Nephrite is a felted, interlocking fibrous aggregate that is dominated by amphibole of the tremolite–actinolite series; it is not a single crystal but spans the compositional range from the tremolite end member Ca2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2 to the ferro-actinolite end member Ca2Fe5Si8O22(OH)2.
Evidence grade AScope: Describes nephrite's mineral composition range only; it does not establish a specimen's origin, treatment, or colour.
Scene 5Fine fibres interlock
Fibrous interlocking (felted) aggregate develops: fine fibrous crystals interlock
Nephrite is built of tiny interlocking amphibole crystals (fibrous/felted texture), which makes the material exceptionally tough
Evidence grade AScene 6The result: nephrite material
Hetian Yu is not a separate mineral species; it is nephrite
Timescale: The available sources give no absolute geological age or date for nephrite formation.
Sources
In brief: In Chinese nomenclature, Hetian Yu refers to nephrite: a fine-grained, fibrous (interlocking/felted) aggregate of tremolite–actinolite amphibole formed by metamorphism.
Full research record (formation summary, where it forms, 4 formation steps, link to appearance, related base materials, 2 supporting findings)
In Chinese nomenclature, Hetian Yu refers to nephrite: a fine-grained, fibrous (interlocking/felted) aggregate of tremolite–actinolite amphibole formed by metamorphism. It forms chiefly by metasomatism (hydrothermal metamorphism): silica-rich fluids replacing dolomite-rich rocks, or calcium-rich fluids reacting with serpentinites, with tremolite and ferro-actinolite as end members; the tiny interlocking fibres make it tough and carvable. Hetian Yu is not a separate mineral species; it is nephrite; although 'Hetian' is a place name, under GB/T 16552—2017 the name does not indicate origin, and the name alone is not an origin determination.
Sources G&G Summer 2023 · GIA Jade Description · Handbook of Mineralogy +1
Where it forms
General occurrence of the constituent mineral tremolite (not specific to nephrite jade): contact metamorphism of Ca-Mg siliceous sediments.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
General occurrence of the constituent minerals tremolite/actinolite (not specific to nephrite jade): greenschist-facies rocks derived from ultramafic or magnesium-carbonate rocks.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
How it forms, step by step
Protolith in place: dolomite-rich rock or serpentinite is present and in contact with fluid (silica-rich fluid, or calcium-rich fluid from silicic rocks).
Fluid metasomatism: silica-rich fluid enters dolomitic rock, or calcium-rich fluid reacts with serpentinite (metasomatism).
Tremolite–actinolite crystallises: for the dolomite route the reaction can be written 5 dolomite + 8 aqueous silica + water → tremolite + 3 calcite + 7 aqueous carbon dioxide; the sources give no reaction for the serpentinite route.
Fibrous interlocking (felted) aggregate develops: fine fibrous crystals interlock into a tough jade.
Sources G&G Summer 2023 · Handbook of Mineralogy · GIA Jade Description
Link to appearance
The fine interlocking fibrous texture makes nephrite exceptionally tough and carvable; nephrite is translucent to opaque, with colours generally more muted than jadeite.
Sources G&G Summer 2023 · GIA Jade Description · Handbook of Mineralogy
Related base materials
- Nephrite: Material basis/parent material of Hetian Yu; in the Chinese naming system, a variety name of nephrite
Supporting findings
Nephrite arises through hydrothermal metamorphism (metasomatism): either calcium-rich fluids interact with serpentinites, or silica-rich fluids infiltrate dolomite-rich rocks; for the dolomite route the reaction can be written 5 dolomite + 8 aqueous silica + water → tremolite + 3 calcite + 7 aqueous carbon dioxide.
Evidence grade AScope: Describes the natural genesis of the underlying material (tremolite–actinolite nephrite) only; it does not establish a specimen's origin, treatment, or colour subcategory.
Tremolite/actinolite occur in metamorphic settings: contact metamorphism of Ca-Mg siliceous sediments, and greenschist-facies rocks derived from ultramafic or magnesium-carbonate rocks; actinolite also occurs in glaucophane-bearing blueschists.
Evidence grade BScope: Describes the general metamorphic occurrence of tremolite/actinolite, not any specific locality or deposit.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Recorded localities
Authoritative sources list the localities below; the list is not exhaustive.
Asia
- Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, China
Sources Gems & Gemology Winter 2000 · Handbook of Mineralogy · Mindat: Nephrite
- Kunlun Mountains (Golmud area), Qinghai, China
Sources Mindat: Nephrite
- Xiuyan County, Liaoning, China (printed as Xiu Lan County)
Sources Gems & Gemology Winter 2000
- Eastern Sayan, Russia
Sources Mindat: Nephrite · Gems & Gemology Winter 2000
Europe
- Jordanów Śląski, Lower Silesia, Poland
Sources Mindat: Nephrite
North America
- British Columbia, Canada
Sources Gems & Gemology Winter 2000 · Handbook of Mineralogy
Oceania
- Hokitika area, West Coast, South Island, New Zealand
Sources Mindat: Nephrite · Handbook of Mineralogy
These are localities recorded by authoritative sources, not an origin finding for any individual piece. The CIBJO Gemstone Book (2022, §4.2.3) says a place of origin names where a gem was mined or harvested, is a matter of opinion, does not imply a level of quality, and that cutting, processing or exporting centres must not be used to imply origin. See how far testing can go on this page, the origin determination guide and the overview of recorded localities.
Where the name comes from
Hetian jade is based on nephrite (a fibrous aggregate of actinolite–tremolite series amphibole); this etymology belongs to its constituent parent minerals: tremolite, first described from its Swiss locality, the Tremola Valley on the southern side of the St. Gotthard Mountains, Switzerland, and actinolite, whose name is Greek for "ray", a nod to the radiating fibrous habit it commonly shows. These etymologies belong to the parent mineral names, not to the Chinese name "Hetian jade".
Evidence grade BScope: This states only the origin of the name and does not establish the material's composition, locality, natural origin, or whether it was treated. The etymology belongs to the parent mineral name and is not the origin of the trade or variety name itself.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Human use and museum objects
Multiple Chinese beads and pendants catalogued as "Jade/jade (nephrite)" (e.g. Cleveland 1953.628, c. 4700–2920 BCE, Hongshan; The Met 1994.605.111a–e, early 8th century) are tremolite nephrite, the parent material to which the name "Hetian jade" refers; they attest to the use of nephrite as a bead/pendant material, not to the origin-variety name "Hetian jade".
Evidence grade AScope: Catalogue objects attest only to the existence and dating of those individual pieces; they are not evidence that the material was in common use in antiquity, nor do they attest to the origin, naturalness or treatment of any modern sample. Cultural attributions follow the museum's records and are not extended.
Sources Cleveland Museum of Art 1953.628 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1966.739 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1952.571.1 +2
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Amulet in the Form of a Seated Figure with Bovine Head (1953.628)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Prismatic Bead with Ogre Mask (1966.739)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Arc-shaped Pendant with Animal Mask and Interlaced Animal Bands (Huang) (1952.571.1)
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art — Assemblage of pendants (1994.605.111a–e)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Bean-Shaped Bead (1952.484)
The catalogue also shows nephrite beads/pendants outside China, e.g. The Met 1978.93.49 (ca. 1st century BCE–1st century CE, Parthian, Iran, Jade (?)). These are parent-material nephrite objects and do not support inferences about the origin or trade of Hetian jade.
Evidence grade AScope: Catalogue objects attest only to the existence and dating of those individual pieces; they are not evidence that the material was in common use in antiquity, nor do they attest to the origin, naturalness or treatment of any modern sample. Cultural attributions follow the museum's records and are not extended.
Sources Cleveland Museum of Art 1953.628 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1966.739 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1952.571.1 +2
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Amulet in the Form of a Seated Figure with Bovine Head (1953.628)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Prismatic Bead with Ogre Mask (1966.739)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Arc-shaped Pendant with Animal Mask and Interlaced Animal Bands (Huang) (1952.571.1)
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art — Assemblage of pendants (1994.605.111a–e)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Bean-Shaped Bead (1952.484)
Catalogue objects in The Met and the Cleveland Museum of Art bear witness to the use of nephrite (tremolite jade): Cleveland 1953.628 (amulet, seated figure with bovine head, c. 4700–2920 BCE, NE China Neolithic, probably Hongshan, jade (nephrite)), 1966.739 (prismatic bead with ogre mask, 1100–900 BCE, Western Zhou), 1952.571.1 (arc-shaped huang pendant, 300–100 BCE, Warring States–Western Han, jade (nephrite)), 1952.484 (bean-shaped bead, 206 BCE–220 CE, Han) and The Met 1994.605.111a–e (assemblage of pendants, early 8th century, Tang, Jade (nephrite)). This evidence concerns the parent material nephrite used for beads and pendants; "Hetian jade" is a Chinese variety/commercial name built on that parent material, so the evidence is not exclusive to Hetian jade and does not indicate the source of any object's jade.
Sources Cleveland Museum of Art 1953.628 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1966.739 · Cleveland Museum of Art 1952.571.1 +2
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Amulet in the Form of a Seated Figure with Bovine Head (1953.628)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Prismatic Bead with Ogre Mask (1966.739)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Arc-shaped Pendant with Animal Mask and Interlaced Animal Bands (Huang) (1952.571.1)
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art — Assemblage of pendants (1994.605.111a–e)
- Cleveland Museum of Art — Bean-Shaped Bead (1952.484)
Scope: Catalogue objects attest only to the existence and dating of those individual pieces; they are not evidence that the material was in common use in antiquity, nor do they attest to the origin, naturalness or treatment of any modern sample. Cultural attributions follow the museum's records and are not extended.
Objects cited
- Cleveland Museum of Art 1953.628jade (nephrite)
- Cleveland Museum of Art 1966.739Jade
- Cleveland Museum of Art 1952.571.1jade (nephrite)
- The Met 1994.605.111a–eJade (nephrite) with bronze and turquoise
- Cleveland Museum of Art 1952.484jade
How it is identified
Hetian jade is a nephrite, and its look does not by itself prove natural origin or the absence of treatment. Similar-looking material can be a different species or be dyed or waxed, so species and treatment must be resolved with laboratory instruments by a qualified gem laboratory rather than judged from appearance.
Evidence grade AScope: Applies to jadeite and nephrite (Hetian jade); species and treatment calls require testing at a qualified gem laboratory, and this entry is not a self-testing basis.
Sources CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
Other research findings
Nephrite is built of tiny interlocking amphibole crystals (fibrous/felted texture), which makes the material exceptionally tough and carvable; nephrite is translucent to opaque, with tones generally more muted than jadeite.
Evidence grade AScope: Relates nephrite's texture to its toughness and records nephrite's appearance (the appearance is not attributed to the texture); not an identification of a specimen.
Sources GIA Jade Description · G&G Summer 2023
Under GB/T 16552—2017 this name is listed under nephrite and denotes a tremolite–actinolite material; this record makes no clause-level definition of its colour-subcategory boundaries and does not treat it as an independent mineral species.
Evidence grade AScope: 'Hetian' here is a name only; under the national standard it does not indicate origin and is not an origin determination.
Sources GB/T 16552—2017
- GB/T 16552—2017 Gems—Nomenclature
Limits of this research
- Research status: Formation, occurrence or other material-specific findings found in authoritative sources
- GB/T 16552—2017 places 'Hetian Yu' under nephrite in Table A.2 of Annex A, and under its 5.1.2.2 c) such place-name-bearing basic names in that table do not indicate origin. This record does not define the boundaries of Hetian Yu colour subcategories at clause level.
- Although 'Hetian' is a place name, under GB/T 16552—2017 the name does not indicate origin; the name alone cannot prove origin or a specimen's naturalness/treatment.
- The colouring mechanisms of nephrite subcategories are not given in the available sources and require testing.
Methodology
- Origin determination and its limits
- Quality grading and value factors
- How gemmology became a technical discipline
Evidence grades
- A
- Standards bodies, government geological surveys, peer-reviewed research and museum records
- B
- Institutional educational material
- C
- Specialist databases or cautious readings
A statement is never graded above its strongest source.
This section is LumaLark's own factual restatement of public authoritative sources, credited item by item; it contains no verbatim excerpts, images or third-party logos.
DecideListing name, disclosure, care and treatments
- Suggested listing name
- Hetian Yu (nephrite; geographic origin requires separate evidence)
GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2 “Hetian Yu,Nephrite”, 5.1.2.2 c) · CIBJO Gemmological Laboratories Book 2024 §7.2.1.154 “Nephrite”
Construction or treatment status
Natural; treatment common (require certificate to distinguish)
Treatments recorded for this material: Filled / Fracture-filled (via parent material), Dyed (via parent material)
Related:Disclosure and cautions
This page cannot answer
Natural? · Origin · Price
A lab report settles these; this wiki covers naming and disclosure.
Related:What this page can answer
Answer at a glance
"Hetian Yu / Nephrite" is a market name rather than a mineral species name; before using it, verify: Laboratory identification required before the name is used.
Evidence
- GB/T · Table A.2, row 和田玉 (Hetian Yu / Nephrite)
What this means for you
Before buying, check the recommended listing name "Hetian Yu (nephrite; geographic origin requires separate evidence)" and any disclosed treatments on this page, and ask the seller for a grading report if in doubt.
Known uncertainty
- This entry's exact material identity is not fully settled.
- See “Disclosure and cautions” above
- Last reviewed
- 2026-09-01
Trade-name ruling
- Laboratory identification required before the name is used.
- Suggested listing name
- Hetian Yu (nephrite; geographic origin requires separate evidence)
Care and wear
The item-by-item care advice that the GIA Care and Cleaning Guide gives for the whole class, and so for Hetian Yu / Nephrite, is set out in full under care on the Nephrite entry.
Care
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
Durability and wearing
Daily wear
Nephrite (Hetian jade) ranks 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale and has exceptional toughness, very resistant to breaking and chipping, though it can be scratched; it is suitable for daily wear, the main risks being surface scratching and contact with acids. Its constituent mineral tremolite has a single-crystal hardness of 5–6.
Care
Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are safe for untreated nephrite; for stones that are dyed, bleached, impregnated, coated or heat-treated, warm soapy water is the safest choice. Heat from a jeweller's torch can harm jade, and it can be affected by warm acids.
Sources GIA Gem Encyclopedia (care guide)
Scope: This field describes the material's general properties and does not constitute a durability or safety guarantee for any specific finished product; the durability of treated (filled, dyed, coated) or composite pieces must be assessed separately.
Treatments and identification leads
Registered treatmentsThe treatments recorded for Hetian Yu / Nephrite are filling and dyeing. Values not givenFilling has the status treated and dyeing the status colour-treated; the stability and prevalence of both are marked “—”, meaning the source gives no value, not “none”. Identification cluesIdentification leads for filling: under magnification the filled areas differ in lustre from the host and may contain gas bubbles; the infrared spectrum can detect the characteristic bands of the filler; and if the filler is wax, wax may seep out when touched with a hot needle. Identification leads for dyeing: dyeing may be overall or partial, with surfaces often dyed brownish red, reddish brown to yellow and similar colours; under magnification the colour is unevenly distributed, mostly gathered in fractures, grain boundaries or surface depressions; dyes may fluoresce distinctively under long-wave and short-wave UV; the colour comes off when wiped with acetone or anhydrous ethanol; and compositional analysers such as XRF can detect foreign elements introduced by the dye, such as Pb. Source: GB/T 16553—2017.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Treatment | Market frequency (CIBJO) | Stability (CIBJO) | GB/T 16552 category | JJA/AGL listing | Identification leads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| fillingStatus: treated | — | — | Graded — see §5.4.1, Table 1 | — | See identification leads |
| dyeingStatus: colour treated | — | — | Treatment | — | See identification leads |
Where each treatment acts (schematics): Filled / Fracture-filled · Dyed
“—” means the cited source gives no value for that item, not “none”. Source: GB/T 16553—2017; GB/T 16552—2017 Table B.1 (row for Nephrite)
Whether a treatment has to show in the name differs between the two rule sets (this site’s paraphrase):
- GB/T 16552—2017: a method classed as treatment has to be stated in the name itself — the method put before the name, or added in brackets after it; a method classed as optimization does not need to appear in the name, though one marked “Optimization (annotation required)” still has to be noted in the quality documents. Source: §5.4.2.1 a), b); §5.4.2.2 a)
- CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022: no longer splits treatments into ones that need specific disclosure and ones that need only general disclosure: every treatment is to be disclosed, and the seller tells the buyer which treatment was used and what special care it calls for. Source: §4.2.5 Note 2, §4.2.5.1, pp.14–15
What this table covers
What this page can give
- Registered treatments, their stability and how often they occur (see the table above)
- Identification leads for each treatment, for use when sending a stone for testing
How lab reports word it
Report wording for Hetian Yu / Nephrite is set out under report wording on the Nephrite entry.
VerifyNames, standards, technical facts, clauses and sources
Names
For Hetian Yu / Nephrite, "Nephrite" is recorded with no restriction on use as a name, while "Hetian Jade" and "Hotan jade" must not be used as a name (GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2 “Hetian Yu,Nephrite”; GB/T 16552—2017 §5.1.2.2 c); 16 CFR Part 23 §23.1); 2 further names in non-Latin scripts are listed in the name register below (2 with no restriction recorded on use as a name).
Standard and listing namesThe Chinese formal name for Hetian Yu / Nephrite is Hetian Yu, from GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2; the suggested listing name is Hetian Yu (nephrite; origin to be separately proven). Names in four languagesNames are given in Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, English (Hetian Yu / Nephrite) and Japanese. Institution usageGIA lists Nephrite / Hetian Jade; FTC lists Nephrite; CIBJO lists Nephrite, with the qualifier stripped from its headline name being (CIBJO Jade Book); Gem-A lists Nephrite. Japanese namesThe entry has its own Japanese name, and the wording used by GSJ (Japan) is not yet verified by this site. Trade and mineralogical namesTrade names/synonyms include Nephrite and Hetian Jade; Hetian Jade is a high-risk name kept for search only; Hetian Yu Qingshui is also a market name. Candidate search termsCuiqing Yu is a search candidate only, based on the GB/T 16552 revision draft for comment (2023, not in force). National standard namesThe German (RAL) formal name is Nephrit, and the European Union formal name is Nephrite.
Name register
Every name recorded for this entry, with how it is classified, whether it may be matched to this entry automatically, whether it may be used as a product name, and the clause it rests on.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Name | Type | Matching | Use as a name | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| no restriction recorded (3) | ||||
| NephriteEnglish | synonym | matched automatically | no restriction recorded | editorial ruling (no clause cited) |
| 和田玉晴水Simplified Chinese | market name | matched automatically | no restriction recorded | editorial ruling (no clause cited); Note: “Qingshui” is a quality qualifier; the whole string is registered as one name. |
| 翠青玉Simplified Chinese | narrower name (variety or subtype) | search candidate only | no restriction recorded | GB/T 16552 revision draft for comment (2023, not in force) Table A.2; GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2 “Hetian Yu,Nephrite”; Note: Draft standard for comment, not in force. |
| not to be used as a name (2) | ||||
| Hetian JadeEnglish | market name | matched automatically | not to be used as a name | GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2 “Hetian Yu,Nephrite”; GB/T 16552—2017 5.1.2.2 c); 16 CFR Part 23 §23.1; Note: Listed as a high-risk name (“Hetian Jade”); kept for search only. |
| Hotan jadeEnglish | market name | matched automatically | not to be used as a name | GB/T 16552—2017 5.1.2.2 c); 16 CFR Part 23 §23.1 |
How each authority words this name: see Names › Authority wording.
- GSJ (Japan) formal name
- 和田玉／ネフライト (not yet checked for this body — the entry's own Japanese name is shown)
- Chinese formal name
- 和田玉 (GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2)
- Mineralogical name
- Nephrite material under Chinese nomenclature; chiefly tremolite–actinolite aggregate
- Trade names and synonyms
- Nephrite (synonym)Not to be used as a name: Hetian Jade (market name) · Hotan jade (market name)
Four-language names
- 简体中文
- 和田玉
- 繁體中文
- 和田玉
- English
- Hetian Yu / Nephrite
- 日本語
- 和田玉／ネフライト
National and regional formal names
- Germany (RAL)
- Nephrit
- European Union
- Nephrite
Qualifiers stripped from the headline name
See also: Misleading and prohibited trade names · Supplementary name index
Classification
- Origin
- Natural materials
- Material domain
- Natural inorganic gem materials
- Browsing family
- Jade materials
- Identity tier
- Mineral / gemstone variety
- Mineral chemical class
- Silicates
- Construction or treatment status
- Natural; treatment common (require certificate to distinguish)
Treatments listed by standards
Hetian Yu / Nephrite is classified under GB/T 16552—2017 Annex B Table B.1 by this site applying the nephrite row: the nephrite row of Table B.1 lists filling, marked as graded, and also lists dyeing, classed as a treatment. The notes to Table B.1 and the grade definitions are on the treatments page; the full row, including the effect column, is on the nephrite page.
GB/T 16552-2017, Annex B, Table B.1
Under the “Nephrite” row of Table B.1: Filling Graded — see §5.4.1, Table 1; Dyeing Treatment. The full row, with the effect column, is on the Nephrite page.
What Table B.1 is, and how the “see 5.4.1” grades are defined: see the GB/T 16552: optimization vs treatment page.
What it is and how it's identified
The composition of Hetian Yu / Nephrite is registered as Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2; the structure is a crystalline aggregate, often fibrous. Mohs hardness 6–6.5; tremolite itself has two directions of perfect cleavage, which are generally not visible once it forms an aggregate. Density 2.9–3.1 g/cm³, derived from the cited clause value of 2.95 with tolerances (+0.15, −0.05). Refractive index 1.6–1.641, derived from the cited clause value of 1.606–1.632 with tolerances (+0.009, −0.006); this site notes that the cited clause has finer sub-ranges and the register takes the overall value. Optic character anisotropic aggregate, birefringence not measurable for an aggregate. Untreated, pleochroism is not measurable for an aggregate, luminescence (overall) none, magnification shows an interwoven fibrous texture and mineral inclusions, and lustre is vitreous to greasy. The UV-visible spectrum is not diagnostic; the infrared spectrum shows characteristic absorption bands from Si-O and other group vibrations in the mid-infrared fingerprint region, and from OH vibrations in the functional-group region. Chatoyancy is visible.
Registered material facts
Each row carries its own source and check date and can be cited on its own; “—” means the cited source gives no value, not “none”.
Definition
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — composition (chemistry): Ca₂ (Mg,Fe) ₅Si₈O₂₂ (OH) ₂
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Structure
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — structure (overall): a crystalline aggregate that is often fibrous
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Durability
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — Mohs hardness: 6–6.5
GB/T 16553—2017
Reference points on this site: Talc 1–3, Fluorite 4, Apatite 5–5.5, Orthoclase 6–6.5, Topaz 8, Diamond 10 (Source: GB/T 16553—2017); Gypsum 1.5–2, Calcite 3, Quartz 7 (Source: Handbook of Mineralogy); Corundum 9 (Source: GIA Gem Encyclopedia (care guide))
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- General note
- hardness only, not durability
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — cleavage: Tremolite crystals cleave perfectly in two directions; aggregates usually have no cleavage.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Physical properties
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — density: 2.9–3.1 g/cm³
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- Qualification
The clause we cite gives 2.95, with a stated tolerance of +0.15 / -0.05. The range shown here is worked out from that.
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Optical
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — optic character: anisotropic aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — refractive index: 1.6–1.641
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- Qualification
The clause we cite gives 1.606–1.632, with a stated tolerance of +0.009 / -0.006. The range shown here is worked out from that.
- General note
- the clause has finer ranges
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — birefringence: not measurable on an aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — pleochroism: not measurable on an aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — fluorescence (overall): none
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — spectrum (UV-visible): non-characteristic
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — spectrum (infrared): Si-O and similar groups vibrate to give the typical absorption bands in the fingerprint part of the mid-IR; OH vibration does the same in the functional group region.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — optical effect (chatoyancy): seen
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — magnification: interwoven fibrous structure, mineral inclusions
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
- CIBJO definitions
- chatoyancy
Quality factors
Hetian Yu / Nephrite — quality factor (lustre): vitreous to greasy
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
This material (RI / SG midpoints): 1.621 / 3; Closest values: 1Danburite 1.633 / 3, 2Amblygonite 1.607 / 3.02, 3Dushan Yu / Dushan Jade 1.63 / 2.9, 4Prehnite 1.625 / 2.88, 5Lazulite 1.627 / 3.12
Show the full chart (330 registered materials)
Outside the full chart's range, drawn as triangles at the edge (RI / SG midpoints): Hematite 3.045/5.12, Synthetic Rutile 2.76/4.26, Rutile 2.753/4.23, Synthetic Moissanite 2.67/3.22
Testing and market
Identification leads for filled Hetian Yu / Nephrite: under magnification, the lustre of the filled parts differs from that of the host jade, and gas bubbles may be present in the filled areas; infrared spectra show characteristic bands of the filler; luminescence imaging equipment such as UV fluorescence viewers can show where the filler is distributed; if the filler is wax, touching it with a hot point may make wax seep out. Identification leads for dyed Hetian Yu / Nephrite: dyeing may be overall or partial, with the surface often dyed brownish red, reddish brown to yellow and similar colours; under magnification the colour is unevenly distributed, mostly concentrated in fractures, gaps between grains or surface hollows; under long-wave and short-wave UV the dye may show distinctive fluorescence; wiping with solvents such as acetone or anhydrous ethanol removes the colour; compositional instruments such as XRF can detect foreign elements introduced by the dye (for example Pb). The leads for filling and dyeing are cited from GB/T 16553—2017, which can be followed only as a reference for this entry and does not directly govern it. The CIBJO laboratory protocol covers Hetian Yu / Nephrite under Nephrite: for identification see the Nephrite entry, and the list of required tests is on the laboratory testing page.
The CIBJO laboratory protocol covers Hetian Yu / Nephrite under “Nephrite” (§6.1.54): see identification on the Nephrite entry; the required tests are listed on the CIBJO laboratory protocol table for Nephrite.
How far testing can go
Hetian Yu / Nephrite that has undergone filling can be identified by the following features: Under magnification the surface luster of the filled part differs from that of the host jade and gas bubbles may be present in the filled area; infrared spectra show characteristic absorption bands of the filler; luminescence imaging (such as a UV fluorescence viewer) shows how the filler is distributed.
If the filler is wax, touching it with a hot needle may make wax seep out.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- treated
- Does this standard apply
- can be followed as a reference only
- Treatment
- filling
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (filling) (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Hetian Yu / Nephrite that has undergone dyeing can be identified by the following features: The dyeing may cover the whole piece or only part of it, and the surface is commonly dyed brownish red, reddish brown to yellow.
Magnification shows the color spread unevenly, concentrating mostly in fissures, between grains and in surface hollows; under long-wave and short-wave ultraviolet light the dye may show a distinctive fluorescence; wiping with a solvent such as acetone or anhydrous ethanol can remove the color; and compositional analysis (XRF and the like) can detect foreign elements introduced by the dye, Pb for instance.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- colour treated
- Does this standard apply
- can be followed as a reference only
- Treatment
- dyeing
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.2 (dyeing) (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
Clause-level definitions
Hetian Yu / Nephrite has a direct definition in the CIBJO Gemmological Laboratories Book 2024 under the term Nephrite; the cross-check result is that it is defined directly by CIBJO and also appears in the GB/T annex. The definition lists the mineral group as amphibole, the mineral species as Actinolite - tremolite and the mineral or gemstone variety as nephrite; the CIBJO wording is quoted in full under Clause-level definitions on this page.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Term | Clause | Definition | Cross-check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nephrite | 7.2.1.154 | Fibrous, polycrystalline aggregate of actinolite- tremolite series amphibole | Defined directly by CIBJO; also present in the GB/T annex. |
Evidence and sources
Authority basis and clause sources
Sources
- CIBJO – The World Jewellery Confederation. Gemmological Laboratories Book (Blue Book), Gemmological Commission 2024-1.
- CIBJO – The World Jewellery Confederation. The Gemstone Book (Blue Book), 2022.
- SAMR / SAC (China). GB/T 16552—2017 Gems — Nomenclature.
- GIA – Gemological Institute of America (United States). Gem Encyclopedia: Jade Description.
Further reading
Related entries and topic cluster
Parent entry and related pages on this site. Rows marked “Planned” are suggested new content and have no link yet.
Related-entry tree for Tremolite on this site: 6 entries listed by this site's parent-entry links; synthetic, treated and similar entries carry their recorded state after the name; this page (Hetian Yu / Nephrite) is marked.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Page | Content | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Browsing family | Jade materials | Live |
| Treatments recorded for this material | Filled / Fracture-filled (via parent material), Dyed (via parent material) | Live |
| Related articles | To be added (placeholder) | Planned |
Who maintains this page
The material facts in the Hetian Yu / Nephrite entry are maintained by the LumaLark wiki and matched one by one to the standard clauses or institutional sources they cite: every fact carries its source (with a clause or page locator) and a check date, so it can be traced back to the original; clause-level definitions also carry a cross-check result. The entry exists so that buyers and sellers can check naming, disclosure and material facts item by item.