💎 Gemdle

Jet

black

Jet, a black/brown mineral
Photographed by: York Museums Trust Staff · CC BY-SA 4.0
ColourBlack, Brown
Mohs hardness2.5–4.0
StreakBrown
CleavageNone
FractureConchoidal
Chemical formulaVariable, but rich in carbon
Specific gravity1.3–1.4

What is Jet?

Jet is a type of lignite, the lowest rank of coal, and is a gemstone. Unlike many gemstones, jet is not a mineral, but is rather a mineraloid. It is derived from wood that has changed under extreme pressure.

How to identify Jet

Can you spot Jet?

Test yourself on photos of Jet and lookalikes:

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Jet?
Jet is Mohs 2.5–4.0 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Jet?
Jet is typically black, brown (Black, occasionally brown).