Post #330515 by Robin on Wed, Sep 5, 2007 5:23 PM

And now for the stoners! I'm on a roll..... O.k. first, here's a piece of jade that I've been staring at for a long time....I kind of acquired it, and believe...pretty sure it's from Wyoming. I want to slab it, but I have a question about the grain. From what I've noticed, correct me please if I'm wrong....Nephrite is sort of built in layers, and jadeite has more of a chrystaline structure. I know you are supposed to cut with the grain so...intuitively...I want to cut this the way it's already been slabbed, but as far as grain goes. It seems to be both ways. When I look at the end, I see grain, but like layers, when I look at the big side, I see grain also, but longer, 'cause it's longer surface,but not layered like the end. If it hadn't been partially cut, I wouldn't know which grain I should choose. I hope you can tell what I'm talking about!

Long side, and end

Biggest face

Bottom

Close up of bottom

Short side that looks layered

Long side that also looks layered but different

Also, I'm off to California Big Sur Jade thing in the beginning of Oct. Paipo, you said that all sorts of things are sold as 'jade' in the U.S. particularly in California. I want to hopefully get some of the real deal. From what I've read, most of this stuff is gathered by divers, although some of it is found on the beaches. I remember while in NZ taking a lot of stuff to Steve to look at that was adventurine, and serpentine. But it sure looked nice to me! The colors are so varied in Nephrite as well. So...what's your advice on how to identify 'real'nephrite. I have seen some pictures posted on various websites with empirical formulas for nephrite, and claims that these stones are the real deal.

Thanks so much for looking and helping. This is so much FUN!

p.s. That is sure a pretty piece up there Tama.

Robin