How to measure jade on the mohs scale
I would like to know how do you measure jades hardness? Meaning is there a special device or equipment one can use?
Hi Carlos, Nephrite Jade runs above 5.5 to 7 on mohs scale of hardness. A good rule of thumb is to use case hardened steel , like a small pocket knife , to do a scratch test. If the stone scratches it is not Jade. If the mark left on the stone has the appearance as lead this indicates the stone is breaking down the steal and is harder than the steal. This is a good field test however it only tells you if the stone is in the hardness range so you will also need to decide based on color and specific gravity. I hope that helps Carlos. Cheers, Mike
Does the same go for Jadeite?
The purer Jadeite is the closer it is to the seven mark. The problem is when you get other minerals involved, but usually solid Jadeite runs seven. Cheers, Mike
Thanks, Mike! I just have a contact for jade in Guatemala so I want to make sure I will be getting what I pay for. They will be carving Olmec and Maya pieces for me and I will be getting them different type of stones for them to carve for me as well. Thanks! Carlos
Thanks, Mike! I just have a contact for jade in Guatemala so I want to make sure I will be getting what I pay for. They will be carving Olmec and Maya pieces for me and I will be getting them different type of stones for them to carve for me as well. Thanks! Carlos