Jade; Bering Sea, Nome, Alaska, USA; partially ground; 8.8 kg; unique piece

Jade from Bering Sea, Nome, Alaska, USA. Partially ground. One unique piece with approx. 8.8 kg 

Massive unique jade specimen from the Bering Sea region near Nome, Alaska, weighing 8.8 kg. The piece displays predominantly dark gray to gray-green coloration with a fine, dense texture and numerous lighter mineral inclusions and markings. Several surfaces have been partially ground, clearly revealing the internal structure of the material, while other areas retain a more natural and irregular surface. The ground faces show distinct variations between fine-grained sections, darker areas, and lighter inclusions. Its compact form and considerable weight make this a large display specimen while also providing a good view of the structure of the raw material.

Geology & Origin

Jade is a general term for exceptionally tough, fine-grained rocks consisting mainly of Jadeite or Nephrite. Nephrite typically forms under metamorphic conditions when calcium- and magnesium-rich parent rocks are altered by pressure, temperature, and mineral-rich fluids. The densely interwoven mineral fibers produced during this process are responsible for the characteristic toughness of Nephrite. Alaska contains various jade-bearing rock occurrences associated with complex tectonic and metamorphic processes. The Nome region along the Bering Sea has a varied geological history involving metamorphic rocks, tectonic alteration, erosion, and redistribution of geological material. The specimen offered here originates from this region and is sold as the unique piece shown.