Pronunciation: [nˈɛfɹa͡ɪts] (IPA) 
The word "nephrites" is spelled with a "ph" instead of an "f" because it comes from the Greek word "nephros," meaning "kidney." The "ph" represents the Greek letter "phi," which is pronounced as an "f" sound. Therefore, the IPA phonetic transcription for "nephrites" is /ˈnɛfrəts/. This word refers to a type of mineral, specifically a variety of jade, that is typically green in color and used for ornamental purposes.
Nephrites, in the realm of gemstones, refers to a specific category of minerals belonging to the larger family of jade. It is commonly referred to as nephrite jade or simply nephrite. Nephrites are characterized by their fine-grained texture, smooth appearance, and exceptional toughness. They are typically found in shades of green, ranging from pale and translucent to dark and vivid.
Nephrites derive their name from the Greek word "nephros," meaning kidney, which alludes to their historical belief of having medicinal properties to treat kidney-related ailments. Historically, nephrites have held significant cultural and artistic value across various civilizations, including ancient China, Mesoamerica, and New Zealand's Maori culture.
This gemstone is often used in the creation of ornamental objects, such as jewelry, carvings, and sculptures, due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Nephrite jade has been cherished for centuries for its perceived qualities, including protecting against misfortune, promoting harmony, and fostering emotional balance.
In terms of mineral composition, nephrites are primarily comprised of calcium, magnesium, and iron-rich amphibole minerals, with tremolite and actinolite being the most common. Unlike their counterpart, jadeite, nephrites have a noticeably softer and slightly lower density. They also tend to exhibit a more fibrous structure, with individual fibers often aligned in a parallel manner. Overall, nephrites are recognized as significant gemstones due to their cultural importance, attractive appearance, and remarkable durability.
The word "nephrites" is derived from the Greek word "nephros", which means kidney. It is the plural form of "nephrite", referring to a type of mineral, specifically a variety of green jade. This term originated from the belief that nephrite jade had medicinal properties for treating kidney-related ailments.
