Jade

Overview
Jade is actually two different minerals referred to by the same name. It seems that for years two separate minerals were referred to and traded as jade because of their amazing similarities. By the time anyone realized they were dealing with two different gems, it was too late. Today, they are differentiated into jade classes, called jadeite and nephrite. Jade has long been revered by the Chinese, where it is called 'Yu'. It is believed to reduce stress, and prolong life.

About the Stone

Jade is a 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Jade isn't an exceptionally hard stone, but it is very tough. In fact, it was used by many earlier civilizations for axes and weapons! Jade is an important part of the Chinese wedding ceremony: it is considered the concentrated essence of love. Jade actually houses two separate and distinct minerals, which we will describe below.

Jadeite

Jadeite is the more expensive variety, and is actually not found in China! This variety of jade is found in Burma and Guatemala. It comes in a wide range of colors including green, mottled green and white, whitish gray, pink, brown, mauve, yellow, orange, and lilac. Green jade of this variety is usually an apple green or emerald color. Colored jade (except green) is usually pale and unevenly tinted.

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite jade is more common than jadeite and is found in mostly dark green shades. This type of jade is considered to the "old and true Chinese jade”. Nephrite is slightly softer than it's counterpart and is found in many countries including China, The United States, and Canada (British Columbia)

Metaphysical Properties

The Chinese have many beliefs about jade. They believe it increases energy, prolongs life, and relieves stress. They also believe that jade symbolizes the five highest virtues:

• benignity
• lucidity
• resonance
• immutability
• purity

Healers have reported jade as being a stone of good fortune and long life. It not only brings prosperity, but allows the wearer to hold onto their money rather than let it slip through their fingers. Other jade properties include longevity, fertility, serenity, wisdom, balance, moderation, perspective, resourcefulness, and accomplishment.

People who wear jade claim to feel calmer and relaxed, leaving them in a serene and tranquil mood.

Jade in Jewelry

Because of how tough jade is, it can be worn virtually any where. It is often carved, and cut into cabochon styles for pendants, earrings, and rings. Jade can also be fashioned into a complete ring, much like the hematite rings you see. There are however, many imitations of jade. "New Jade" is actually a gemstone called serpentine but looks almost identical. The easiest way to tell real jade apart is a basic scratch test (although this still isn't a definitive test). Real jade should not be easily scratched by a knife while serpentine and many other imposters are. When purchasing jade, just make sure you trust the source and you should be fine.