For thousands of years jade, an ornamental mineral stone has been a favourite of mankind. Its popularity in the old days can be best seen in ancient Asian artworks, especially Chinese. The word ‘jade’ is derived from the Spanish term ‘piedra de ijadan’ meaning stone of the colic, because Spanish people believe that it can cure colic in babies just by simply placing it over their stomach. It is used in alternative healing processes; the purity and nourishing power of jade make it a perfect stone for those who are looking for spiritual pleasure.
Jade consists of two separate minerals, nephrite and jadeite. Even though they have entirely different chemical and structural properties, it is quite hard to tell them apart. Nephrite which is the commonly available form of jade, has lower translucency and radiance than jadeite. Also, jadeite is slightly harder than nephritis. Jadeite has a density range of 3.30-3.38 and nephrite has only 2.90-3.03, making it less dense than jadeite.
Nephrite is considered as a cleansing stone. It represents purity and beauty which brings out grace, joy and pleasant dreams. Jadeite has the healing capacity helping to lead a healthy and longer life. Nephrite is available widely in China, Russia and New Zealand. The rare jadeite is found only in Western parts of Canada and. North America.
When we look at the history of jade, we can see that it was used in many forms from making weapons to decorative items to gorgeous ornaments. In Central America, deity masks were made using this stone. We can find traces of this stone, which was considered as a precious gem by ancient Chinese rulers once in burial sites and other famous excavation scenes all around the world.
Contrary to popular belief, the colour of jade is not limited to a green or greenish range. It is available in a wide range of colours, each having distinct energy and meaning.
- Green jade symbolizes the heart and is the most popular jade stone in the market.
- Black jade helps the wearer in self-defeat during times of physical or mental attack.
- Brown jade helps in connection with mother earth, giving a feeling of comfort to whoever wears it.
- Blue coloured jade is used to bring inner peace, thereby calming the mind.
- Orange jade brings a lot of happiness by making connections with others.
- Lavender jade gives spiritual nourishment to the owner.
- While jade provides the wearer with more focus, thus improving their decision-making ability.
The emerald green coloured imperial jade, is the most valuable coloured jade available today. It is a rare piece of translucent to semi-transparent jadeite. The most common coloured jadeite is the pale green.
When you buy a jade stone, make sure it is not a fake one. Even experts can only be around 80% to 90% sure about whether it is authentic or not. If you want to be one hundred per cent sure you can check it in a certified laboratory. The reason for this difficulty in finding real jade is that it is a broad term for a large variety of stones, making it hard to distinguish each of them.
The classic beauty of this elegant stone has made it a trendy adornment piece nowadays. Match it with a knockout cocktail dress or casual jeans and shirt; it will perfectly fit any outfit for any occasion. You can also get inspired by the 1950s when jade stones were hugely popular.
Choose from vintage styles like glass jade bracelet and green jade triangle necklace or wear it as a statement piece following today’s fashion trends; the choice is yours. This ageless style will surely make you look prettier with it’s simple but stylish appeal creating a long-lasting impression.