Nephrite Jade Butterflies. Nephrite consists of a microcrystalline interlocking fibrous matrix of the calcium, magnesium-iron rich amphibole mineral series tremolite (calcium-magnesium)-ferroactinolite (calcium-magnesium-iron). The middle member of this series with an intermediate composition is called actinolite (the silky fibrous mineral form is one form of asbestos). The higher the iron content, the greener the colour.

Nephrite can be found in a creamy white form (known in China as “mutton fat” jade) as well as in a variety of light green colours. Reference: Wikipedia

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White Jade is a form of Nephrite Jade. It is  usually white, off-white, or cream in color. When white jade appears as translucent white or pale yellow it is sometimes referred to as mutton fat jade. Below are some examples of white jade butterflies or white jade with butterfly designs.

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Jade butterflies. Jade refers to an ornamental mineral, mostly known for its green varieties. It can refer to either of two different minerals: nephrite, a silicate of calcium and magnesium, or jadeite, a silicate of sodium and aluminium.

Jade is featured prominently in ancient Asian art, but also has an important place in many other cultures. Reference: Wikipedia

The butterfly is usually associated with joy and weddings, but as its name (hudie) is a pun for “age seventy to eighty,” it is also a symbol for longevity. Reference: The Metropolitan Museum

Below are some examples of antiques made of jade and either in the form of butterflies or decorated with butterflies.

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