How is jade created?

Jade is formed through a combination of geological processes involving the metamorphism of certain minerals, primarily nephrite and jadeite, which are the two main types of jade. Nephrite is predominantly composed of the mineral actinolite, while jadeite is made up of a different crystal structure, primarily consisting of sodium aluminum silicate. These minerals typically develop under high pressure and temperature conditions within the Earth's crust, often in subduction zones where tectonic plates converge. Over millions of years, these processes result in the creation of jade, which is then mined for its beauty and cultural significance.