Black Jade Specimen | West Australian Museum Quality Collector Piece
This polished black jade specimen from Western Australia is a museum quality mineral display piece valued for its deep, refined colour and natural geological formation. Carefully polished to reveal its dense structure and subtle tonal variation, the specimen ranges from dark forest green through to near jet black, shaped by natural mineral composition and iron-rich inclusions.
Black jade is composed primarily of two closely related mineral types: sodium aluminium silicate (jadeite) and calcium magnesium silicate (nephrite). While both are commonly referred to as jade, they differ in density, crystal structure, hardness, and formation processes, giving each specimen distinct physical character and appearance.
The characteristic dark colouring of black jade originates from iron oxide inclusions within the stone. While the base material is often deep green, these natural inclusions darken the material over time, producing the rich near-black tones seen in high-quality specimens.
Selected for the Australian Museum Shop, this specimen is suited to collectors seeking authentic, natural mineral examples with strong geological and aesthetic presence.
Dimensions: angular in shape, this 12mm slice is 180 x60mm at widest and tallest points
Weight: 250g
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Orders are posted Mon - Weds. Standard post to Australian addresses will arrive within 5 - 7 working days from dispatch date.
For international delivery, please allow an additional 14 days
We hope you are happy with your purchase(s). But if not, we will exchange or issue a refund provided that the goods are returned in saleable condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Black jade is composed primarily of jadeite (sodium aluminium silicate) and nephrite (calcium magnesium silicate), two closely related but distinct minerals.
Why is jade black in colour?
The dark colouring is caused by iron oxide inclusions within the stone, which deepen the original green tones to near black.
How hard is black jade?
Black jade has a Mohs hardness of approximately 6.5–7, making it a durable metamorphic mineral.
Is each specimen the same?
No. Each piece varies naturally in colour depth, patterning, and mineral structure.
Is this suitable for collectors?
Yes. This is a museum quality specimen selected for authenticity, geological interest, and display value.
