Nephrite Jade is an uncommon and highly valued mineral. It is known for its smooth, vitreous surface and dense fibrous structure. It can occur in many colors, often with yellowish hues, but a deep green is more valuable.
Jadeite, another mineral commonly referred to as jade, differs chemically from nephrite. Although similar in appearance, jadeite is distinguished by its brighter colors and unique physical properties, and it is rarer than nephrite.
Outside the U.S., notable nephrite and jadeite deposits can be found in Canada, Russia, China, Myanmar, Guatemala, New Zealand, and Japan.
Where to Find Nephrite Jade?
Nephrite jade is commonly found along the Pacific Coast of Canada and the United States. In the U.S., significant deposits are located in Alaska, California, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.
Nephrite jade is often associated with serpentine in geological environments, as both minerals form under similar metamorphic conditions in ultramafic rocks commonly found in subduction zones. Nephrite jade and serpentine can occur together. However, this association is not universal, as nephrite can also form in other metamorphic settings.
Alaska
The Kobuk River region in Alaska boasts some of the largest collections of high-quality jade. However, due to the challenging terrain, accessing these remote areas often requires careful planning and, in some cases, the assistance of a guide.
California
Jade is a popular collectible in California. It can be found on the California Coast beaches and the gravel bars of the Klamath River, Eel River, and Rocky Creek.
The rare blue/green ICE color Big Sur Jade, aka "Jade Cove," is well-known among rock collectors. This jade is found in Jade Cove, south of Monterey. It can be washed up on the beaches or embedded in coastal rocks.
Oregon
Southern Oregon's coastline, especially beaches south of Gold Beach and the gravels of Hunter Creek and Pistol River are known sources of nephrite jade. Applegate River and Cow Creek have also been reported as promising areas for finding these minerals.
Washington
Washington State has a few locations where rock collectors can find nephrite jade, most of them in the regions north of Seattle. The Skagit River and its tributaries yield nephrite jade, often found in gravel bars or eroded from nearby rock formations. Also, the gravels of Pilchuk and Deer Creek offer opportunities to find this mineral.
Wyoming
Wyoming is home to some of the most abundant deposits of nephrite jade in the U.S. The state even recognizes jade as its official gemstone!
The best areas to search include the Granite Mountains and Wind River Range. Collectors often find nephrite in boulders, cobbles, and smaller pieces scattered across the plains.
Where to Find Jadeite?
Jadeite occurrences are rare and found only in a few specific locations in the United States, particularly California and Washington.
California: The primary California locations of jadeite deposits are Idria and Hernandez areas in San Benito County. Both places are part of the Clear Creek geological region and share similar rock formations. Jadeite is found in California and Washington. Jadeite was also reported in Mendocino and Sonoma Counties.
Washington: Jadeite is only found in Skagit County.
Disclaimer
The Gimme Rocks website ("We") provides information on various rock and mineral collection sites. Please note that the information may change at any time, and we cannot guarantee its accuracy or currency. Some collecting areas are located near mine claims or private lands, and it is your responsibility to determine the land status and applicable collection rules.
Be aware that GPS truck navigators and app-based driving directions may not always be accurate. Additionally, cell service may be unavailable in some remote regions.
