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The Epic Interactive Encyclopedia 1997
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jade
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1992-09-02
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A semiprecious stone consisting of either
jadeite, NaAlSi2O6 (a pyroxene), or nephrite,
Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH,F)2 (an amphibole),
ranging from colourless through shades of
green to black according to the iron content.
Jade ranks 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs' scale of
hardness. The early Chinese civilization
discovered jade, bringing it from E
Turkestan, and carried the art of
jade-carving to its peak. The Olmecs, Aztecs,
Maya, and the Maoris have also used jade for
ornaments, ceremony, and utensils.