Omphacite Jadeite Gemstone

Omphacite Jadeite Gemstone

Omphacite is derived from the Greek word for “unripe grape” which alludes to the unripe grape’s green color. Omphacite Jadeite shares gemological similarities with sodium-rich Jadeite and calcium-rich Augite.

Omphacite Jadeite usually refers to the green variety of Omphacite.

Omphacite has been confused with Jadeite. Many historical pieces that were believed to be Jadeite later were discovered to be composed of Omphacite.

Omphacite Jadeite is of a pyroxene silicate of calcium, sodium, iron, magnesium and aluminum chemical composition. It occurs in a monoclinic with prismatic, usually twinned and intergrown belonging to the same crystal structure as jadeite.

Its color ranges from pale-green, green, dark-green, and blackish-green.

The blackish-green Omphacite Jadeite is also known as Inky Black Jade. It is not to be confused with Ink Jade, which is a trade name for an ink black variety of nephrite.

Omphacite Jadeite has a hardness ranging from 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It has a brittle tenacity and is translucent to opaque in its transparency with a glass-like, dull, greasy luster (very similar to Jadeite).

Omphacite Jadeite has a very weak pleochroism and fluorescence.

Jade is used nowadays to refer not only to Jadeite (the rarest and most valuable type of jade) and Nephrite (which is what we usually think of as Jade) but also to the many varieties of different types of Jade rock which include Maw-Sit-Sit, Jade-Albite and Omphacite Jadeite. Nonetheless, to be classified as jade, the jade rock must contain at least 20% to 80% Jadeite. In regards to Omphacite Jadeite and according to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and Gubelin Gem Lab, only the green colored Omphacite can be sold as Omphacite Jadeite or as Jade. For example, the blue Omphacite mined in Guatemala is classified as Omphacite and not as Jade. Omphacite Jade is very rare.

Omphacite Jadeite was first described in 1815, in Bavaria, Germany.

Omphacite Jadeite is generally cut en cabochon. It is also carved into ornamental flowers and animals. It can also be cut and designed as a talisman and amulet.

Like most Jade, Omphacite Jadeite can be coated, dyed and/or impregnated to improve its color and stability. But usually, Omphacite Jadeite comes in its natural color.

Omphacite is part of the large group of Pyroxene minerals which include Jadeite, Spodumene, Kunzite, Hiddenite, Diopside and Augite. This group also includes Rhodonite, Enstatite, and Hypersthene. Omphacite which is considered a type of jade is closely associated with Nephrite, Jade-Albite and Chloromelanite.

Omphacite Jadeite is often confused with other green gemstones such as Jadeite, Nephrite, Kosmochlor and Serpentine.

As a type of Jade, Omphacite Jadeite is believed to be able to relieve pain at the side of the navel (Omphalos). Jade is derived from the Spanish word Piedra de Hijada which means ‘stone for the pains in the liver’ (Higado). The ancient Mesoamericans used Jade for this purpose. It was a sort of amulet by itself.

In China, Jade was referred to as the Heavenly Stone or Yu. Just as the Mesoamericans, the ancient Chinese also believed that Jade possessed metaphysical properties that enhanced and gave good health and long life.

In Feng Shui, Jade brings prosperity and health.

In Asia, Jade is more valuable than gold and diamonds. It is usually worn as bangles.

It is believed that Jade not only has powerful healing properties, but also it protects the wearer from bad luck and evil.

Omphacite jadeite is appropriate for all types of jewelry including rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, pins and brooches.

To clean your Omphacite Jadeite, simply use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Remember to rinse well and remove all soapy residue. Avoid hash household chemicals and cleaners. It is also recommended to remove your precious Omphacite Jadeite gemstone when doing the dishes, also when exercising and playing sports.

Some of the most well-known sources and mines of Omphacite Jadeite are found in Austria, Burma, Cambodia, Canada, China, Germany, Guatemala, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Russia, Taiwan and in the United States.