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Hetian jade (also spelled Hotan or Khotan jade) is a highly prized type of nephrite jade that originates primarily from the Hetian region in Xinjiang, China. It has been valued for thousands of years in Chinese culture for its beauty, durability, and symbolism. Here's an overview:

Types of Hetian Jade

Hetian jade comes in several varieties, based on color and mineral content:

1. White Jade (Bai Yu / 羊脂玉 "mutton fat jade") – The most prized type, especially the pure, translucent, creamy white variety.

2. Green Jade – Varies from light to dark green, often confused with jadeite but softer and more opaque.

3. Black Jade – Often used for carving and has a deep, glossy appearance.

4. Yellow Jade – A warm-toned stone, less common but still valued.

5. Ink Jade (墨玉) – A mix of black and white, giving it a marbled or smoky appearance.

Key Characteristics

• Composition: Nephrite (a calcium magnesium silicate), unlike jadeite (a sodium aluminum silicate).

• Hardness: 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale.

• Texture: Smooth, waxy luster with a dense, fine-grained structure.

• Cultural Value: Considered a symbol of purity, nobility, and moral integrity in Confucian thought.

Uses

• Carved into ornaments, jewelry, seals, and religious artifacts.

• Used in imperial China for ceremonial and burial items.