New Zealand is known as a major source of which type of jade?

New Zealand is renowned for its significant deposits of nephrite jade, which is commonly referred to as "pounamu" by the indigenous Māori people. Nephrite is a type of jade that is formed under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions, and it is appreciated for its durability and beauty. The nephrite from New Zealand is particularly valued not only for its striking colors ranging from dark green to black but also for its cultural importance and traditional uses in Māori carving and jewelry.

In contrast, jadeite, another form of jade, primarily comes from countries such as Myanmar and Guatemala and is less associated with New Zealand. Serpentine and chrysoprase are distinct minerals that, while they may share some visual similarities with jade, are not classified as jade. Therefore, understanding the context of each mineral and its origins helps clarify why nephrite, as the correct answer, is specifically linked to New Zealand.