CALIFORNIA BLACK JADE
California Black Jade, also known as Ink Jade, is a unique variety of black nephrite jade found throughout the state. Shop LC’s selection may also be referred to as Boots Black Jade, named after its prospector, Howard Boots. The original location of this jade is a closely guarded secret, known by only three people—two of whom have taken this knowledge to the grave. Today, only Howard’s widow, Shirley, knows the secret of Boots Black Jade.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MEANING
What Does California Black Jade Mean?
For centuries, crystal healers and gem therapists have valued nephrite jade for its curative properties. The stone is used to treat bladder infections, kidney stones, and incontinence. In fact, the stones name has its roots in the Greek nephros which refers to the kidney. It was among the Greeks that the stone’s powers over the kidney were first popularized.
Additionally, nephrite is believed to increase creativity and relax its owner. Over time, owning a nephrite stone is thought to bring inner peace.
VALUE
Determining California Black Jade Value
The value of colored stones is typically determined by a combination of its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This is no different when determining what black jade is worth. These guidelines will help you choose jade stones for your collection.
COLOR
Ideal black nephrite jade displays a black or nearly black color. Microscopic inclusions of dark material like graphite give this stone its dark color. Occasionally, hints of gray or green may be present, but this is uncommon and not usually desired. The best California black jade appears to drink in surrounding light, only leaving behind its deep and mysterious black color.
CLARITY
As a primarily opaque stone, black nephrite jade won’t show visible internal inclusions. Since the material is so abundant, finished jade pieces should be smooth when polished, without any surface blemish. Jade with a damaged surface will have its value significantly reduced. After polishing, black jade displays a bright and glassy luster.
CUT
An opaque stone, nephrite jade is most frequently shaped into cabochons and beads. Thanks to its durability, black jade is also frequently carved into ornamental figures.
CARAT WEIGHT
Nephrite from California frequently occurs in large boulders, with some weighing up to 1000 pounds. This means that black jade can be commonly found in a variety of sizes. Due to its availability, there is not a significant increase in price as stones become larger.
TREATMENT
California Black Jade Treatment
Frequently, gemstones undergo additional enhancements to increase their beauty or durability. These treatments are common and accepted within the gemstone trade. Such enhancements may include heating, irradiation, or surface coating to improve color and clarity. However, California black jade undergoes no further known treatment. It is an entirely natural stone, valued for its authentic appearance and untouched natural quality.
ORIGIN
Where Does California Black Jade Come From?
Did you know that jade occurs throughout California? Anecdotes and lore suggest that Chinese immigrants were mining and collecting jade as early as the 19th century to ship back to China. However, most expert sources agree that jade rushes in California truly began during the 1940s.
Jade is closely related to serpentine, and the stones are frequently found in the same areas. Large-scale operations rarely can sustain themselves, as many locations quickly become exhausted, or too expensive to maintain. Despite this, California continues to remain a significant producer of jade; especially black nephrite jade.
Within California, significant deposits of jade are found in San Benito, Mendocino, Mariposa, Tulare, Marin, and Siskiyou Counties.
Storage
Caring for California Black Jade
Ranking 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, black nephrite is a reasonably hard stone. However, when you pair this with its exceptional toughness, you have one of the most durable stones known. Diamond is undoubtedly harder than nephrite jade, ranking ten on the Mohs scale, but the unique interwoven fibrous structure of nephrite makes it far more resistant to chipping and breaks than a diamond.
To care for black jade, use warm water with mild dishwashing soap and a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Normal heat won’t harm the stone, but the heat from a jeweler’s torch can. Avoid exposure to household chemicals.
Although nephrite is highly durable, store it carefully in a lined jewelry box or wrap it in a soft cloth to keep it beautiful for years to come.
IDEAL CHOICE
Who Can Wear California Black Jade?
Black is an iconic color that epitomizes style and class. Looking good on anyone, black is a neutral that everyone ones. Black jade jewelry is the perfect selection for whenever a sophisticated gemstone is needed, no matter the occasion. As the universal neutral, you can pair it easily with nearly any color. Jade jewelry is especially famous for large and bold pieces, and its durability makes it ideal for carving into unique shapes you don’t typically see with other stones.
Difference
How Does California Black Jade Compare To Other Stones?
Black jade holds its own against other popular opaque black stones from Shop LC, such as Thai black spinel and shungite. It stands apart from these other gems with its glossy finish, shungite favors a matte luster while black spinel leans toward an adamantine one.
Facts
California Black Jade Facts
- Black jade ranks from 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
- Pink Sapphire Color
- Our supply of black nephrite jade comes from a secret cache in California.
- This stone undergoes no additional treatment.
- California black jade may also be known as black nephrite, ink jade, or Boots black jade.