Updated as of June 2026
Jade
Revered in many cultures, especially in East Asia, as a stone of harmony, prosperity, and good luck.
Price range$20 to $2,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)6.75
ColorsGreen, White, Lavender, Yellow
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
5.2/10
Jade pros and cons
Pros
- Good durability (Mohs 6.75) for most jewelry
- Rare and collectible
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 6.75, best in protected settings
- Commonly treated (bleaching and polymer impregnation)
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
- Opaque, so it shows color rather than sparkle
Jade is ideal for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, and works in everyday rings with a protective setting.
Explore Jade
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestJade jewelry
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 6.75) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Tough and durable but can be dyed. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
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Where to buy Jade: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Jade?
Revered in many cultures, especially in East Asia, as a stone of harmony, prosperity, and good luck. It rates 6.75 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in green, white, lavender, yellow.
How much does Jade cost?
Jade typically runs about $20 to $2,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Jade price guide for detail.
Is Jade good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 6.75 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Jade?
Jade earns an overall AltGems Score of 5.2 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Jade?
Tough and durable but can be dyed. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.