nefriti

Nefriti is a mineral composed primarily of calcium magnesium silicate hydroxide, with the chemical formula Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂. It belongs to the sorosilicate group of minerals and is a variety of the broader mineral class known as jade. Nefriti is renowned for its durability, toughness, and distinctive green color, which ranges from pale to deep green, sometimes with white or yellowish veins.

Historically, nefriti has been highly valued across various cultures, particularly in ancient Mesoamerica, where it was used to create intricate carvings, jewelry, and ceremonial objects. The Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations, among others, utilized nefriti in their art and as a symbol of wealth and power. In China, nefriti was also prized, often referred to as "jade," and was associated with nobility, spirituality, and protection.

The mineral forms through hydrothermal processes, typically found in metamorphic rocks such as serpentinite. It is often associated with faults, shear zones, and other tectonic features where fluids rich in silica and magnesium interact with existing rock formations. Nefriti is distinguished from another form of jade, nephrite (often spelled similarly but distinct in some contexts), though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in casual reference.

In modern times, nefriti is still appreciated for its aesthetic and symbolic qualities. It is used in jewelry, decorative objects, and as a collector’s item. Due to its hardness (ranging from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale) and resistance to scratching, nefriti remains a durable material for crafting. However, its rarity and the complexity of its formation contribute to its high value in the market.