Noun: nephrite 'ne,frIt
- An amphibole mineral consisting of calcium magnesium silicate in monoclinic crystalline form; a source of jade that is less valuable than from jadeite; once believed to cure kidney disorders
"Nephrite jade has been used for thousands of years to make tools and ornaments"
Derived forms: nephrites
Type of: amphibole
Part of: amphibole group
Encyclopedia: Nephrite