Jade has been known and treasured for more than 7,000 years. But only in 1863 was it discovered that jade is actually not a single mineral. What was traditionally called jade is in fact two separate and distinct minerals: jadeite and nephrite.

Nephrite is the more common form of jade. Nephrite ranges in color from mid- to dark-green or grey-green, but it can also be white, yellowish or reddish. Nephrite is slightly softer than jadeite; nephrite is 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, while jadeite is 6.5-7. They have quite different chemical compositions as well; nephrite is a calcium magnesium iron silicate while jadeite is a sodium aluminum silicate. The two minerals also have different densities. Jadeite has a density of 3.30-3.38 while nephrite is less dense at 2.90-3.03.

Certified Customer Reviews

Overall Rating -> 10

I have purchased several lots of gemstones from Gem Select and have always been happy with the high quality of stones, as well as promptness of service and excellent packaging.

Posted By Larry in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

Completely would recommend this company to any gem collector, jewelry store, or someone looking for a gemstone to repair their jewelry. There is an abundance of choices at great prices! If you donâ€™t see what you need exactly the customer service department will go above and beyond to meet your needs. Shipping is very reasonable! The gemstones always arrive well before the expected arrival date. This company has very high standards of meeting their customers needs! They are the number 1 company I go to when looking for any gemstone. They are also very detailed in their descriptions so there is no confusion at all as what you are purchasing! Highly recommended!!!!

Posted By Cliff in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

If you want a gem that you can trust to not be treated, or if it is itâ€™s disclosed this is the place! Thereâ€™s something for everybody. I really like knowing that the picture of the item is the one Iâ€™m buying, not a sample or stock photo. If you make jewelry, buy gems here! You can even buy a gem and have it set by a jeweler. Again, they have an amazing inventory, and prices are more than fair. You wonâ€™t be disappointed! I just wish they sold uncut gems. Sometimes I just want a specimen in the crystal form. Iâ€™m surprised they had no quartz from Arkansas, but they have a great selection of anything Iâ€™ve ever looked for.

Posted By Nita in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

I was looking for a tourmaline but although there were numerous beautiful stones to choose from, there was none that fit my need. Then I thought of some other beautiful stones I love and sunstone came to mind. I so thrilled when I was able to find the most gorgeous sunstone and with the exact specifications of my need. GemSelect makes it extremely easy to find the exact stone your looking for quickly and check out is just as easy to go through. I would (and have) definitely recommend GemSelect because of the large selection of stones, ease of use, and fast affordable shipping.

Posted By Ngibson82 in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

It was easy to find the kind of stone I was looking for in the price range I preferred.

Posted By S.S. in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

ease of going through site and making purchase. will update when item received

Posted By CAT in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 9

The site it's self looks fairly plain and simple but the wide variety of stones with high quality photos and price ranges made finding a beautiful stone in my price range was extremely easy.

Posted By Randy in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

I love collecting Gems and Gemselect is my go to place to get them. I have never been dissatisfied with any of my orders. I also love the information that they give for each gem.

Posted By Pierre de la Fontaine in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 10

Easy to navigate website, excellent photos of gemstones, good information about the different gemstones

Posted By Max in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

Overall Rating -> 8

I was looking for gemstones to use for making jewelry for birthday gifts. It was east to find what i needed with the birthstone information and quick and easy to locate gems. Ive never bought gems from anywhere else. This is a good site

Posted By Michavo in July, 2021

Source: Bizrate

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