Jade

Gemstones

Jade

Jade has been an important gemstone throughout history, especially among the Chinese and Latin American cultures. Ancient carved figures have been found from these societies, where the value of Jade was sometimes worth even more than of gold. Jade is best known as a green ornamental stone. Its colors vary from light to dark green, but it may also be other colors such as white, gray, and purple. Jade is actually the gemstone name for two different mineral forms, Jadeite and Nephrite. Jade is said to promote love, courage, justice, wisdom and self-sufficiency and is believed to be an emotional balancer. It is thought to release negative thoughts, soothe the mind, protect the wearer from harm and to attract good luck and friendship.

Colors:	While Nephrite is generally only green, cream, or white, Jadeite colors can range through the color spectrum with more exotic colors. The most valuable form is called Imperial Jade, which is emerald-green in color and translucent.
Shapes:	Jade is most often polished into cabochons and beads, and is used in bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings. Ornamental figures,ornate engraved pendants and cameos have traditionally been carved from Jade.
Origin:	Mynamar (Burma); China (Tibet), Russia, Kazakhstan, Guatemala, and the United States.
Care:	To clean jade properly, you can use only water. Alternatively, you can prepare a simple cleaning solution by adding a little mild soap to the water. However, do not use any other jewelry cleaners or household detergents that may contain harsh chemicals.
Notes:	The name Jade is derived from the Spanish phrase "Piedra de Ijada", which means "Stone of the Hip", as this stone was used as a metaphysical protection against kidney disease by the ancient societies.