Jasper (Green Nephrite)

Jasper is an important variety of nephrite jade, characterized by its deep green color and elegant appearance. Premium jasper has a spinach-green color with fine, uniform texture, ideal for vessels and ornamental pieces.

Mohs Hardness

6.0-6.5

Origin

Russia, Xinjiang Manas, Canada, Pakistan

Market Price Range

Premium spinach green: $70-$700/g; Regular jasper: $7-$70/g

Detailed Description

Jasper is classified by origin into Xinjiang jasper (Manas jasper), Russian jasper, and Canadian jasper. Russian jasper is most popular in the market due to its rich color, fewer black spots, and uniform texture.

Identification Methods

Color uniformity: quality jasper has even color distribution without obvious banding

Black spots: natural jasper often contains chromite spots; small amounts are normal

Translucency: jasper has moderate translucency; excessive transparency may indicate glass

Texture fineness: under magnification, genuine pieces show dense fibrous structure

Market Information

The jasper market has been heating up in recent years, especially Russian jasper which is sought after for its rich color and fine texture. Spinach-green jasper prices have risen about 50% over the past five years.