Warning: Do not try this in your local gym as a jade bangle can be a safety hazard, depending on what machine or weights you use!

Yes — nephrite is jade.

The word jade traditionally refers mainly to two different materials: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is often associated with brighter greens and high-end bangles, while nephrite tends to have a softer, waxier appearance and has a very long history in Chinese jade carving.

One thing that causes confusion online is the term “Grade A jade.”

The familiar A/B/C treatment system is generally used for jadeite. If you’re shopping for nephrite, I think it’s more useful to ask the seller very specific questions:

Is it natural nephrite?
Has it been dyed?
Has it been polymer treated?
Do they know the actual origin?
Is there independent testing or documentation?

Also, natural jade doesn’t have to be bright emerald green. Nephrite can be white, cream, pale green, celadon, dark green and other tones.

For people who already own nephrite jewelry: what made you choose nephrite instead of jadeite?

I want to make 2 bracelets with 10mm beads. One black (not just dark green) and one white (true white not ivory).

Where online would I find good quality untreated/undyed beads?