Jet
Jet is an organic black gemstone formed from wood that has carbonized underground over a long period. Popular as mourning jewelry in 19th-century Europe, it is characterized by its deep black color and lightweight nature.
Deep black Jet
Basic Information
| Chemical Formula | Carbon (C) with impurities |
|---|---|
| Classification | Amorphous |
| Hardness | 2.5–4.0 (Mohs scale) |
| Specific Gravity | Approx. 1.34 (very light) |
| Crystal Form | Massive (sometimes preserving wood structure) |
Characteristics
-
Fossilized Wood: Formed by the carbonization of driftwood, sometimes with visible wood grain.
-
Color Variations: Black Dark Gray Sooty Black
Varieties & Aliases
- Variety Soft Jet: Brittle, coal-like texture
- Variety Hard Jet: High-quality variety often found in Whitby, England
- Alias Black Amber: Sometimes incorrectly referred to as black amber
Note: Distinguishing jet from coal depends on its fracture, sheen, and luster.