Dictionary

nephrite

noun neph·rite \ˈne-ˌfrīt\

Definition of NEPHRITE

:  a compact tremolite or actinolite that is the commoner and less valuable kind of jade and that varies in color from white to dark green or black
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Origin of NEPHRITE

German Nephrit, from Greek nephros; from its formerly being worn as a remedy for kidney diseases
First Known Use: 1794

Other Mineralogy Terms

agate, host, inclusion, matrix, streak

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