Comparison · Minerals
Calcite vs Jade
Calcite and Jade are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Jade is harder (Mohs 5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Jade will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Calcite and Jade
- Jade is harder (Mohs 5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Jade will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- Streak color differs: Calcite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Jade leaves white to light-colored.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Calcite is transparent, Jade is opaque.
Calcite vs Jade properties
| Property | Calcite | Jade |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 3 | 5 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White to light-colored |
| Transparency | transparent | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 | 2.7 |
| Crystal system | trigonal | varies |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink | Various |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$100+ | $2–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Jade is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Jade can reach $150 or more.
About Calcite
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth, found in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. It's the primary component of limestone and marble.
About Jade
Jade is ornamental stone.
Calcite vs Jade FAQ
Is Calcite the same as Jade?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Jade is harder (Mohs 5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Jade will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
How can you tell Calcite from Jade?
Jade is harder (Mohs 5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Jade will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Streak color differs: Calcite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Jade leaves white to light-colored. Hold a thin edge to the light: Calcite is transparent, Jade is opaque.
Which is harder, Calcite or Jade?
Jade is harder: Mohs 5 against Mohs 3 for Calcite.
Which is more valuable, Calcite or Jade?
Jade is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Jade can reach $150 or more.
