What is the Difference Between Jade and Serpentine?

Jade and serpentine are two different types of precious minerals that are often used in jewelry and decorative objects. Both minerals typically appear in green color but have distinct differences:

1. Hardness: Jade has a hardness of 6 or greater, while serpentine has a hardness of 3-6.
2. Streak: Jade has a colorless streak when scratched against a porcelain tile or streak plate, whereas serpentine has a white streak.
3. Specific Gravity: Jade has an average specific gravity of about 3.3, while serpentine has a specific gravity of 2.5-2.6.
4. Luster: Jade generally has a vitreous (jadeite) or greasy (nephrite) luster, whereas serpentine has a greasy or waxy luster.

Jade is a term used to describe two different types of minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is known for its high translucency and vivid green color, while nephrite is more commonly found and typically less expensive. Serpentine, on the other hand, is a group of minerals that typically have a green color and are composed of hydrous magnesium silicate. Some serpentines are used as a jade simulant due to their similar appearance.

Comparative Table: Jade vs Serpentine

Here is a table comparing the differences between jade and serpentine:

Jade has two varieties: nephrite (beige or green) and jadeite (many different colors), while serpentine varieties include Lizardite (green, brown, light yellow), Chrysotile (white or grey), and Antigorite (dark green, black, yellow). Jade is harder and has a vitreous or greasy luster, while serpentine is softer and has a greasy or waxy luster. The specific gravity of jade is higher than that of serpentine, and it has a colorless streak, whereas serpentine has a white streak. Jade and serpentine are often used for different metaphysical purposes, with jade being associated with luck and fortune, and serpentine being used for gaining clarity.