Jadeite

A rare mineral, the mostly highly prized of the two distinct minerals which may be called jade. Much of the jadeite is green, but it varies widely in color. It is a stone carved by Mesoamericans into ornaments and statuary. Many prehistoric artifacts in Europe are made from jadeite, but no suitable European resources are known today. Sources of jadeite are known in Burma, Mexico and California.

A rare mineral, one of two distinct minerals which may be described as jade. Much of the jadeite prized as a precious stone is green, but the mineral varies widely in colour. One form of jadeite which varies from green to black in colour is sometimes called chloromelanite. Sources of jadeite are known in Burma, Mexico and California. Many prehistoric artefacts in Europe are made from jadeite, but no suitable European sources are known today.