Earth Treasures: Jet
By Chisom Ibemere
Jet gemstone is a type of organic gemstone that is formed from fossilized wood. It is primarily found in coastal areas and along riverbanks. It is mainly found in England, Spain, France, Germany, and Russia. It is also found in some areas of the United States, such as Pennsylvania and Utah.
Jet is a variety of lignite, the lowest rank of coal. It is not a mineral, but is rather a mineraloid. It is derived from wood that has changed under extreme pressure.
Jet gemstone is black in colour and has a dull, matte finish. It is lightweight and has a hardness of 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. The gemstone has a resinous lustre and is highly opaque.
Jet has been used as a gemstone since the Neolithic period. It was highly valued in ancient time.