Jade is generally more valuable than obsidian. While both materials have cultural significance and aesthetic appeal, jade's rarity, historical importance, and use in high-status items contribute to its higher value. Jade has been prized for thousands of years in various cultures, including ancient China, where it was associated with the emperor and considered a symbol of wealth and power. High-quality jade can fetch prices in the millions of dollars, with pieces from famous jade mines like the Nephrite mines in Xinjiang, China, commanding premium prices. Obsidian, on the other hand, is a volcanic glass that has been used for tools and jewelry but does not hold the same cultural or historical significance as jade. While some obsidian pieces can be valuable due to their craftsmanship or rarity, they typically do not command the same prices as high-quality jade. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the value of jade is influenced by factors such as its color, transparency, and origin, making it a more valuable material in the gemstone market.