Jade Gemstone Beads

Frequently asked questions

• What's the difference between nephrite and jadeite?

  Both are sold as jade but are mineralogically distinct. Nephrite is a calcium-magnesium-iron silicate in the amphibole group, typically more fibrous and slightly softer (Mohs ~6–6.5). Jadeite is a sodium-aluminum silicate in the pyroxene group, denser, harder (Mohs ~6.5–7), and the tougher of the two thanks to its interlocking crystal structure. Jadeite produces the vivid emerald-green 'Imperial' material and the lavender colors; nephrite tends toward spinach-green, cream, and the classic Hetian whites. Ask before buying if a strand isn't specified.
• Is the jade in this collection treated or dyed?

  Treatment varies by strand. The jade trade recognizes Type A (untreated, natural color), Type B (bleached and polymer-impregnated to improve translucency), and Type C (dyed). Dakota stocks a mix including natural nephrite, natural jadeite, and dyed material across multiple colors. If treatment status is critical for your design or disclosure to a client, ask before buying.
• Are 'New Jade,' 'Serpentine Jade,' and 'African Jade' real jade?

  No. These are trade names for other minerals. New Jade and Serpentine Jade are serpentine (Mohs ~3–5). African Jade is usually a green grossular garnet (Transvaal jade) or a dyed quartzite depending on the source. They share color or appearance with true jade but are softer and chemically unrelated. True jade is either nephrite or jadeite — anything else is a substitute regardless of how the strand is labeled.
• How durable is jade for everyday jewelry?

  Both jades sit at Mohs 6–7 and are exceptionally tough due to their fibrous (nephrite) or interlocking granular (jadeite) structure — jade is more break-resistant than its hardness number suggests, which is why it's been carved for millennia. Clean with mild soap and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are generally safe for untreated material but should be avoided on Type B polymer-impregnated jadeite, since heat and vibration can damage the resin.
• What sizes and cuts of jade does Dakota stock?

  Round beads dominate the collection, with faceted rounds, microfaceted rounds, rondelles, chips, pebble and nugget shapes, cubes, and hexagons also in stock. Sizes run primarily 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm rounds, with smaller 2x4mm and 3mm options and irregular nugget runs around 8x10–9x13mm. The 8mm and 6mm rounds are the deepest-stocked sizes.