gems, jade, amphibole jade, nephrite, Siberia, Russia

Analysis of an oriental specimen and the first analysis of Siberian nephrite from near Irkutsk. Fellenberg-Rivier presents chemical analyses of two nephrite specimens and a stone axe identified as saussurite, comparing their compositions in order to distinguish these macroscopically similar materials. He reports the principal chemical constituents and uses the analytical results to clarify the mineralogical identity of the specimens, demonstrating the importance of chemical examination in separating true nephrite from other tough, compact green stones used for prehistoric implements. The study forms part of Fellenberg-Rivier’s broader investigation of archaeological jade and jade-like materials and contributed to the nineteenth-century debate over the identification and provenance of polished stone implements.