When one tectonic plate subducts, or sinks under another, rocks and water are pushed into Earth's mantle. Take a closer look at this piece of jade. ... The rocks that are rubbing against each other break and shatter, forming small cracks. Water is squeezed out of the rock under the high pressures deep inside Earth.

Where does Jade come from?

Jade is mined in many locations around the world. Both jadeite and nephrite are found in Russia, China, and Guatemala. Nephrite deposits of varying quality have been discovered in both the Swiss Alps and New Zealand.

What is Jade composed of?

JADE main. Jade is the gem name for mineral aggregates composed of either or both of two different minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite. Jadeite is a sodium-rich aluminous pyroxene; nephrite is a fine-grained, calcium-rich, magnesium, iron, aluminous amphibole.