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UnderstandWhat it is, what people ask, how far this page goes
Natural inorganic gem materials · Rock / mineral aggregate · Natural identity; treatment status unknown
Quartzite Jade
Also known asQuartzite
Quartzite used as a jade and ornamental material, listed as a basic name in GB/T 16552-2017 Table A.2; it is not Fei Cui (Jadeite Jade) or Hetian Yu (Nephrite). 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 Quartzite Jade forms and what gives its colourFormation setting, process and timescale, each finding graded and sourced
- How to identify Quartzite JadeIdentification points from the research literature; how far lab testing can go and whether a synthetic exists
- Treatments and enhancements of Quartzite Jade2 registered treatments: status, stability, how common they are and identification leads
- Caring for and wearing Quartzite JadeCleaning, heat, chemicals and light, as the cited sources give them; durability indicators and wearing advice
- Hardness, density and refractive index of Quartzite JadeEach value with its source and check date
- Quartzite Jade in English, Chinese and Japanese; national standard namesNames in four languages, the GB/T standard name and the suggested listing name; and: Has any of GIA, FTC, CIBJO or Gem-A put a name for it on record here?
- Name origin and history of Quartzite JadeWhere the name comes from
- Listing and disclosing Quartzite JadeThe listing name to use; what must be disclosed before sale
- Standard clauses that define Quartzite JadeWhich 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
Quartzite jade is a quartz-family jade term whose underlying material is quartzite. Quartzite is a rock composed mainly of quartz, and quartz is characteristic of sandstones and quartzites. Its material sources include slow precipitation from silica-rich fluids and silica cementation, with quartz grains accumulating from silica carried in solution; a quartz-rich sandstone then recrystallizes and densifies under regional metamorphism to become quartzite. The underlying material of quartzite jade therefore combines sedimentary/hydrothermal silica sources with a metamorphic-recrystallization history.
Scope: Applies to the composition and genetic description of the underlying quartzite-type materials of quartzite jade; it is not treated as a single mineral species, and specific localities are not covered.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy · G&G Spring 1982 · G&G Fall 2013
Where it forms
Silica-rich sedimentary and metamorphic rock settings such as sandstones and quartzites
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy · G&G Spring 1982
Quartz precipitation environments in hydrothermal veins and in granites and granite pegmatites
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
How it forms, step by step
Silica slowly precipitates and accumulates from migrating solutions, forming quartz grains and silica cement.
Quartz enrichment produces a quartz-rich sandstone.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
The quartz-rich sandstone recrystallizes and densifies under metamorphism to form quartzite.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Where quartzite contains trace elements or inclusions, its appearance varies in color and pattern.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Link to appearance
The appearance of quartzite jade depends on grain size, cementation, and degree of metamorphic recrystallization: finely recrystallized material is dense and semitranslucent with a greasy to vitreous luster, while Fe-bearing chromophores or inclusions produce yellow/red hues, bands, and patterns.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Timescale
The source states that crystallization of comparable silica chalcedony (agate) can last millions of years and proceed in stages.
Sources G&G Fall 2013
Related base materials
- Quartz-dominant jade (quartz-family category): Quartzite jade is the term, within the quartz-family jade category, for material whose underlying material is quartzite
- Quartzite: Underlying rock material, with quartz as the main rock-forming mineral
Supporting findings
Formation of the underlying quartz material includes slow precipitation from silica-rich fluids and silica cementation, with quartz accumulating from silica in migrating solutions.
Evidence grade AScope: Describes precipitation and accumulation pathways of silica.
Quartz-bearing material occurs in hydrothermal veins, granites, and granite pegmatites, as well as in sandstones, quartzites, and other rock types.
Evidence grade BScope: Describes occurrence environments; not limited to one locality.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
According to the source, crystallization of comparable silica chalcedony can last millions of years and proceed in stages.
Evidence grade AScope: Timescale derives from a specific silica chalcedony locality, not a universal quartzite-jade value.
Where the name comes from
The etymology given here belongs to the parent mineral quartz: the name quartz is of obscure origin, first applied in the Middle Ages to gangue in Saxony, Germany. This belongs to the parent mineral quartz (its host rock being quartzite), not to the trade name “quartzite jade”; the source gives no etymology for that name.
Evidence grade BScope: The etymology belongs to the parent mineral and does not establish the composition, locality, naturalness, or treatment of the material denoted by the trade name.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
How it is identified
Quartzite jade can look similar to synthetic or imitation quartz material, and appearance alone cannot separate them. Distinguishing them requires laboratory work, with routine gemological tests combined with compositional and spectroscopic instrumental testing; the conclusion should be issued by an accredited laboratory and is not for the reader to determine unaided.
Evidence grade AScope: Quartzite jade identification must be determined by an accredited laboratory; this entry does not imply self-identification.
Other research findings
The underlying material of quartzite jade is quartzite, a rock composed mainly of quartz; quartz is a characteristic mineral of sandstones and quartzites.
Evidence grade BScope: A mineralogical/rock-assignment statement, not a specific sample identification.
Sources Handbook of Mineralogy
Limits of this research
- Research status: Formation, occurrence or other material-specific findings found in authoritative sources
- Quartzite jade is a category/trade term rather than a single mineral species; this record documents the genesis of its underlying quartzitic material.
- The full text of GB/T 16552-2017 and GB/T 34098-2017 is not freely obtainable, so whether 'quartzite jade' is a regulated name or any clause wording could not be verified.
- The cited sources give no specific P-T conditions or absolute ages for quartzite recrystallization; the timescale is quoted only from a specific silica chalcedony locality.
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
- Quartzite
GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2 “Quartzite jade” · CIBJO Gemmological Laboratories Book 2024 7.1.4
Construction or treatment status
Natural identity; treatment status unknown
Treatments recorded for this material: Dyed, Bleached, Filled / Fracture-filled
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
Quartzite Jade is often subjected to dyeing. Under GB/T 16552-2017, dyeing counts as a treatment and must be stated in the name (§5.4.2.2 a). Do not assume it is unenhanced.
Evidence
- GB/T · Table A.2, row 石英岩玉 (Quartzite Jade)
What this means for you
Before buying, check the recommended listing name "Quartzite" 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
- Disclosure rules for the treatments above can change as authorities update their standards; re-check before relying on this page.
- Last reviewed
- 2026-09-01
Trade-name ruling
- Industry-wide term that does not denote a single species.
- Suggested listing name
- Quartzite
Care and wear
Normal care for every gemstone (CIBJO Gemstone Book §6.1), in brief:
- Handle it gently.
- Store pieces apart when not worn, so they cannot scratch each other.
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
- Use ultrasonic cleaners only with caution.
The §6.1 wording and the full list of §6.2 special-care letters cited on this page are on the general gem care page.
Care
Quartzite Jade — care (cleaning): Some stones are susceptible to damage from ultrasonic cleaning. Do not expose them to ultrasonic cleaning.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
CIBJO Gemstone Book §6.2:special-care code j
- Treatment state
- treated
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- CIBJO Blue Book — Official Gemstone Book (Coloured Stone Commission 2022) (CIBJO): §8 Annex C, Quartzite, p.70; §6.2 j (locator checked 2026-09-25)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
Quartzite Jade — care (chemicals): Treatments with dye, oil, resin, wax or plastic are not permanent; keep it away from all solvents (including dish-washing liquids), chemicals and heat.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
CIBJO Gemstone Book §6.2:special-care code k
- Treatment state
- treated
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- CIBJO Blue Book — Official Gemstone Book (Coloured Stone Commission 2022) (CIBJO): §8 Annex C, Quartzite, p.70; §6.2 k (locator checked 2026-09-25)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
Quartzite Jade — care (chemicals): Some stones are porous. Do not allow contact with coloured fluids.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
CIBJO Gemstone Book §6.2:special-care code c
- Treatment state
- treated
- Only after these treatments
- dyeing
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- CIBJO Blue Book — Official Gemstone Book (Coloured Stone Commission 2022) (CIBJO): §8 Annex C, Quartzite, p.70; §6.2 c (locator checked 2026-09-25)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
Quartzite Jade — care (chemicals): Some stones are porous. Do not allow contact with coloured fluids.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
CIBJO Gemstone Book §6.2:special-care code c
- Treatment state
- untreated
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- CIBJO Blue Book — Official Gemstone Book (Coloured Stone Commission 2022) (CIBJO): §8 Annex C, Quartzite, p.70; §6.2 c (locator checked 2026-09-25)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
Common care questions and matching entries
The care entries for Quartzite Jade come from the CIBJO Gemstone Book. CleaningOn cleaning: treated Quartzite Jade must not be cleaned ultrasonically. ChemicalsOn chemicals: for treated Quartzite Jade, dyeing, oiling, resin impregnation, waxing or plastic impregnation are all not permanent, and it should be kept away from all solvents (including detergents of every kind), chemicals and heat; treated Quartzite Jade that has been dyed only is porous and should not come into contact with coloured liquids; untreated Quartzite Jade is also porous and should not come into contact with coloured liquids.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Question | Matching entries |
|---|---|
| Can it go in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner? | care (cleaning) |
| Contact with acids, alkalis and household chemicals | Treatments with dye, oil, resin, wax or plastic are not permanent; keep it away from all solvents (including dish-washing liquids), chemicals and heat; care (chemicals); care (chemicals) |
Care entries by treatment state
The same entries grouped by the treatment state each applies to; each links to its full wording and source. Letters are CIBJO special-care codes, explained on the gemstone care page.
treated
- care (cleaning) §6.2 j
- Treatments with dye, oil, resin, wax or plastic are not permanent; keep it away from all solvents (including dish-washing liquids), chemicals and heat §6.2 k
untreated
- care (chemicals) §6.2 c
treated (Only after these treatments: dyeing)
- care (chemicals) §6.2 c
Durability and wearing
Toughness
Brittle; tough when massive
Treatments and identification leads
Registered treatmentsThe treatments registered for Quartzite Jade are impregnation and dyeing. Stability and frequencyImpregnation has the status treated, stability unstable and prevalence occasional; dyeing has the status treated, stability unstable and prevalence common. Identification cluesIdentification leads for dyeing include: magnification shows uneven colour distribution, with the colorant tending to concentrate in fractures, grain boundaries or surface pits; the dye may give a distinctive fluorescence under long-wave and short-wave UV; the UV-Vis spectrum shows anomalies, with absorption bands in material dyed green with chromium salts; and the colour comes off when wiped with solvents such as acetone or anhydrous ethanol. The source for dyeing is the dyeing clause of GB/T 16553—2017. Values not givenThe identification leads and source for impregnation are “—”, meaning the cited source gives no value, not “none”.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Treatment | Market frequency (CIBJO) | Stability (CIBJO) | GB/T 16552 category | JJA/AGL listing | Identification leads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| impregnationStatus: treated | occasionally | unstable | — | — | — |
| dyeingStatus: treated | commonly | unstable | Treatment | — | See identification leads |
| Bleaching and filling | — | — | Treatment | — | — |
Where each treatment acts (schematics): Impregnated · Dyed
“—” means the cited source gives no value for that item, not “none”. Source: CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022 · GB/T 16553—2017; GB/T 16552—2017 Table B.1
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
VerifyNames, standards, technical facts, clauses and sources
Names
Besides Quartzite Jade, the name register records "Quartzite", for which no restriction on use as a name is recorded.
Standard and listing namesThe Chinese formal name for Quartzite Jade appears in GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2, and the suggested listing name is Quartzite Jade. Names in four languagesFour-language names are given in Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, English (Quartzite Jade) and Japanese. Trade and mineralogical namesThe market and trade name/synonym is Quartzite. Institution usageThe FTC and CIBJO texts on file have no wording for Quartzite Jade (checked), and GIA and Gem-A are unchecked; bodies without a recorded wording show the entry's own English name, which does not represent their position. Japanese namesThe entry has its own Japanese name, and the wording of Japan's GSJ is not yet verified by this site. Trade and mineralogical namesGB/T 34098—2017 Table A.1 lists trade names such as Dongling stone, Huanglong Yu, Nanhong, Mi Yu, Alashan Yu, Tongtian Yu, Taishan Yu, Dabieshan Yu, Hezhou Yu, Jixue Yu, Jinsi Yu and Nanhong Agate together with quartzite jade, chalcedony, agate and jasper, and the original does not specify which variety each corresponds to; Quartzite Jade showing aventurescence may be called Dongling stone (aventurine).
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 (1) | ||||
| QuartziteEnglish | market name | matched automatically | no restriction recorded | editorial ruling (no clause cited) |
How each authority words this name: see Names › Authority wording.
- GSJ (Japan) formal name
- クォーツァイト・ジェード／珪岩質玉 (not yet checked for this body — the entry's own Japanese name is shown)
- Chinese formal name
- 石英岩玉 (GB/T 16552—2017 Table A.2)
- Mineralogical name
- Quartzite used as jade/ornamental material
- Trade names and synonyms
- Quartzite (market name)
Four-language names
- 简体中文
- 石英岩玉
- 繁體中文
- 石英岩玉
- English
- Quartzite Jade
- 日本語
- クォーツァイト・ジェード／珪岩質玉
GB/T 34098 trade names
GB/T 34098-2017 Table A.1 lists these trade names in one cell shared by quartzite jade and chalcedony, agate, jasper; the original does not say which name goes with which: 东陵石 Dongling Shi, 黄龙玉 Huanglong Yu, 南红 Nanhong, 密玉 Mi Yu, 阿拉善玉 Alashan Yu, 通天玉 Tongtian Yu, 台山玉 Taishan Yu, 大别山玉 Dabieshan Yu, 贺州玉 Hezhou Yu, 鸡血玉 Jixue Yu, 金丝玉 Jinsi Yu, 南红玛瑙 Nanhong Manao, and others.
Clause 5.1 separately allows quartzite jade showing aventurescence to be called Dongling Shi.
The full table and naming rule are on the Quartzose Jade page.
See also: Misleading and prohibited trade names · Supplementary name index
Classification
- Origin
- Natural materials
- Material domain
- Natural inorganic gem materials
- Browsing family
- Quartz and chalcedony materials
- Identity tier
- Rock / mineral aggregate
- Mineral chemical class
- Silicates
- Construction or treatment status
- Natural identity; treatment status unknown
Treatments listed by standards
For Quartzite Jade, the "Quartzite jade" row of GB/T 16552—2017 Annex B, Table B.1 lists: dyeing, which improves or changes colour, category treatment; and bleaching and filling, which change appearance, category treatment. What Table B.1 is, and how its grades are defined, are on the Gem treatments page.
GB/T 16552-2017, Annex B, Table B.1
Table B.1, row “Quartzite jade” (p.16):
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Method | Effect | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Dyeing | Improves or changes colour | Treatment |
| Bleaching and filling | Changes appearance | Treatment |
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 Quartzite Jade is quartz (SiO2), possibly with elements such as Fe, Al, Mg, Ca, Na, K, Mn, Ni and Cr; the structure is a compact, phanerocrystalline quartz aggregate with granular structure, the quartz grains usually 0.02 mm to 2 mm. Mohs hardness 6–7, cleavage none; density 2.64–2.71 g/cm³ and refractive index 1.544–1.553, with this site noting that the clauses for density and refractive index have finer sub-ranges and the overall values are taken. Optic character anisotropic aggregate, birefringence not measurable for an aggregate, and untreated, pleochroism likewise not measurable for an aggregate; untreated, luminescence is usually none, and quartzite containing chromian mica shows none to weak, greyish-green or red; the UV-visible spectrum is not diagnostic, and quartzite containing chromian mica may show absorption bands at 682nm and 649nm. Untreated, polished surfaces are usually vitreous and fracture surfaces usually greasy or waxy, the lustre ranging from vitreous to greasy. Aventurescence is visible, and Quartzite Jade showing aventurescence can be called aventurine.
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
Quartzite Jade — composition (chemistry): quartz:SiO2, elements such as Fe,Al,Mg,Ca,Na,K,Mn,Ni and Cr may be contained.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Structure
Quartzite Jade — structure (overall): dense phanerocrystalline quartz aggregate of granular structure; quartz grains typically 0.02 mm to 2 mm.
GB/T 34098—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-17
- Source
- GB/T 34098—2017 Quartzose jade — Classification and nomenclature (GB/T): §5.1 (locator checked 2026-09-17)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-17
Quartzite Jade — structure (crystalline state): a visibly crystalline aggregate with a granular structure
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): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
- GB/T 34098—2017 and GB/T 16553—2017
The two entries agree. GB/T 34098-2017 §5.1 and the crystalline-state field of GB/T 16553-2017 both describe quartzite jade as a phanerocrystalline aggregate with a granular structure. The former also notes that it is dense and gives the usual size of the quartz grains.
Durability
Quartzite Jade — Mohs hardness: 6–7
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 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — cleavage: none
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
For Quartzite Jade, the stability of impregnation is “unstable”.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
- Treatment state
- treated
- Treatment
- impregnation
- Qualification
This says how well the treatment holds up, not how durable Quartzite Jade itself is.
- General note
- no durability verdict here
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
For Quartzite Jade, the stability of dyeing is “unstable”.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
- Treatment state
- treated
- Treatment
- dyeing
- Qualification
This says how well the treatment holds up, not how durable Quartzite Jade itself is.
- General note
- no durability verdict here
Source & check 2026-09-22
- Source
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-22
Physical properties
Quartzite Jade — density: 2.64–2.71 g/cm³
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- General note
- the clause has finer ranges
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Optical
Quartzite Jade — optic character: anisotropic aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — refractive index: 1.544–1.553
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- General note
- the clause has finer ranges
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — birefringence: not measurable on an aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — pleochroism: not measurable on an aggregate
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — fluorescence (overall): generally none; quartzite containing chrome mica: none to weak, grey-green, red.
GB/T 16553—2017
UV fluorescencegrey-greenrednone–weak, quartzite containing chrome micaDots are illustrative colours built from the colour names, not measured values
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — spectrum (UV-visible): non-characteristic; quartzite containing chrome mica: may have 682 nm absorption band; may have 649 nm absorption band.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — spectrum (infrared): Mid-IR absorption follows the pattern typical of quartz
GB/T 16553—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — optical effect (aventurescence): Quartzite jade showing aventurescence may be called dongling stone (aventurine)
GB/T 34098—2017
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-17
- Source
- GB/T 34098—2017 Quartzose jade — Classification and nomenclature (GB/T): §5.1 (locator checked 2026-09-17)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-17
Quartzite Jade — optical effect (aventurescence, identification feature): 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): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
- GB/T 34098—2017 and GB/T 16553—2017
The two entries complement each other. GB/T 16553-2017 lists aventurescence among the special optical effects of quartzite jade, as a feature used in identification. GB/T 34098-2017 §5.1 deals with naming: quartzite jade that shows aventurescence may be called dongling stone (aventurine).
Quartzite Jade — magnification: granular structure, mineral inclusions
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — body colour: occurs in many colors, commonly green, grey, yellow, brown, orange-red, white and blue.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- Qualification
GB/T 16553—2017 sums up the colour of Quartzite Jade as “all colours”; in its chapter 5, Tourmaline, Calcite, Opal and other variety clauses likewise say “all colours” or “all body colours”.
- General note
- colour alone is not identity
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
Quartzite Jade — common colours: yellow, red, white, green, black and similar colours.
GB/T 34098—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
- Qualification
Among the quartzose jade varieties in GB/T 34098—2017, Chalcedony, Agate, Jasper and other varieties also name yellow or a yellowish colour among their common colours; the standard separates these varieties by crystallinity and by whether they show silica-replacement pseudomorphs.
- General note
- colour alone is not identity
Source & check 2026-09-26
- Source
- GB/T 34098—2017 Quartzose jade — Classification and nomenclature (GB/T): §5.1 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
- CIBJO definitions
- aventurescence
Quality factors
Quartzite Jade — quality factor (lustre): Polished surfaces commonly show a vitreous luster. Fracture surfaces commonly show a greasy or waxy luster.
GB/T 34098—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-20
- Source
- GB/T 34098—2017 Quartzose jade — Classification and nomenclature (GB/T): §5.1 (locator checked 2026-09-17)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-20
Quartzite Jade — quality factor (lustre range): 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): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-26)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-26
- GB/T 34098—2017 and GB/T 16553—2017
The two entries complement each other. GB/T 16553-2017 gives the range of lustre (vitreous to greasy). GB/T 34098-2017 §5.1 describes polished and fracture surfaces separately and also lists a waxy lustre. They do not conflict.
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
This material (RI / SG midpoints): 1.548 / 2.67; Closest values: 1Shoushan Stone 1.56 / 2.7, 2Agate 1.537 / 2.63, 3Changhua Stone 1.56 / 2.6, 4Synthetic Beryl 1.57 / 2.69, 5Bamboo Coral 1.57 / 2.65
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
The CIBJO laboratory protocol covers Quartzite Jade under “Quartz” (§6.1.65): see identification on the Quartz entry; the required tests are listed on the CIBJO laboratory protocol table for Quartz.
How far testing can go
Quartzite Jade that has undergone dyeing can be identified by the following features: Under magnification the colour is unevenly distributed and mostly concentrated in fissures, between grains or in surface hollows; the dyestuff may fluoresce abnormally in long- and short-wave UV; the UV-visible spectrum is abnormal (material dyed green with a chromium salt shows a 650 nm absorption band); wiping with acetone or absolute ethanol can lift the colour.
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- colour treated
- Does this standard apply
- can be followed as a reference only
- Treatment
- dyeing
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (dyeing) (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — how far testing can go (instrumental testing): Quartzite containing fuchsite appears red under the Chelsea colour filter
GB/T 16553—2017
- Treatment state
- untreated
- Does this standard apply
- applies to this entry
Source & check 2026-09-21
- Source
- GB/T 16553—2017 Gems — Testing (GB/T): §5.2.4 (locator checked 2026-09-21)
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-21
Quartzite Jade — synthetic counterpart on the market: No synthetic counterpart of this material is commercially available
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
- Treatment state
- any treatment state
Source & check 2026-09-22
- Source
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-22
For Quartzite Jade in trade, the reported frequency of impregnation is “occasionally”.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
- Treatment state
- treated
- Treatment
- impregnation
Source & check 2026-09-25
- Source
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-25
For Quartzite Jade in trade, the reported frequency of dyeing is “commonly”.
CIBJO Gemstone Book 2022
- Treatment state
- treated
- Treatment
- dyeing
Source & check 2026-09-22
- Source
- Fact checked on
- 2026-09-22
Each row's “Source & check” expands to the full source; the date beside it is the fact check date.
Clause-level definitions
The term registered for Quartzite Jade in the clause-level definitions is Quartzite Jade; the cited clause is GB/T 16552—2017 Annex A, and the definition in summary is quartzite used as a jade and ornamental material. The cross-check result is that it is listed directly in GB/T, and no identically titled standalone entry was found in CIBJO.
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Term | Clause | Definition | Cross-check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quartzite Jade | GB/T 16552-2017 Annex A | Quartzite used as jade/ornamental material | Listed directly by GB/T; CIBJO carries no standalone entry under the same name. |
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.
- RRUFF Project, in partnership with the IMA – International Mineralogical Association. IMA Mineral List.
- Geological Survey of Japan, AIST (Japan). Museum mineral specimens, browse by classification.
- AQSIQ / SAC (China). GB/T 34098—2017 Quartzose jade — Classification and nomenclature.
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 Quartz on this site: 74 entries listed by this site's parent-entry links; synthetic, treated and similar entries carry their recorded state after the name; this page (Quartzite Jade) is marked.
- Quartz
Sub-entries (57)
- Agate
Sub-entries (1)
- Amethyst
- Ametrine
- Aventurine Quartz
- Aventurine Quartz / Green Aventurine
- Banded Agate
- Black Agate
- Bloodstone / Heliotrope
- Blue Lace Agate
- Carnelian
- Chalcedony
Sub-entries (2)
- Chrysoprase
- Citrine
- Clear Quartz / Rock Crystal
- Coated Quartz
- Colourless to White Quartz (brand name: Azeztulite)
- Crazy Lace Agate
- Dendritic Agate
- Dyed Agate (Treated: dyed)
- Elestial Quartz / Skeletal Quartz
- Eye Agate
- Flower Agate / Cherry Blossom Agate
- Green Quartz
- High-clarity quartz with golden needle-like inclusions
- Included Quartz
- Jasper
Sub-entries (1)
- Madeira Citrine
- Malachite Agate
- Morion / very dark Smoky Quartz
- Moss Agate
- Moss Chalcedony
- Multi-inclusion Quartz
- Onyx (banded chalcedony)
- Phantom Quartz
- Prase
- Prasiolite / Green Quartz
- Quartz Cat’s-eye
- Quartz claimed to be from the Himalayas
- Quartz Crystal
- Quartz with dark needle-like inclusions
- Quartz with fine fibrous inclusions
- Quartz with flower-like inclusions
- Quartz with golden needle-like inclusions
- Quartz with green needle-like inclusions
- Quartzite Jade
- Quartzose Jade
- Red Agate
- Rock Crystal
- Rose Quartz
- Rutilated Quartz
- Sard
- Sardonyx
- Silicified Asbestos
Sub-entries (2)
- Hawk’s Eye
- Tiger’s Eye
Sub-entries (1)
- Smoky Quartz
- Smoky Quartz (brown variety)
- Strawberry Quartz
- Yellow-green Quartz
- Agate
This table scrolls sideways on narrow screens.
| Page | Content | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Browsing family | Quartz and chalcedony materials | Live |
| Treatments recorded for this material | Dyed, Bleached, Filled / Fracture-filled | Live |
| Related articles | To be added (placeholder) | Planned |
Who maintains this page
The material facts in the Quartzite Jade 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.