State Gem
Jade, courtesy of GALLERIES.COMThe state gem is jade. It was adopted in 1968 in Alaska. It was chosen because it is a common sight. Most Jade in Alaska it can be found near the Dall, Shungnak, Kobuk Rivers, and Jade Mountain, all north of the Arctic Circle. Jade can be found in many colors such as green, brown, black, yellow, white, and even red. The most valuable shades are marbled black, white, and green. Gem-quality jade, about 1/4 of the jade mined, is used to make jewelry. Fractured jade is used to make clock faces, table tops, bookends and other items.