nephrite

n. [ Cf. F. néphrite. See nephritis. ] (Min.) A hard compact mineral, of a dark green color, formerly worn as a remedy for diseases of the kidneys, whence its name; kidney stone; a kind of jade. It varies in color from white to dark green. It is the more common and less valuable variety of jade, the other being jadeite. Large deposits are found in Australia. Called also nephritic stone. See also Jade. [ MW10 ] [ 1913 Webster +PJC ]