Jade

Jade is the toughest gemstone, this is because of it's structure. Jade is almost never found in individual crystals and is composed of microscopic interlocking crystals that produce a very tough matter. The name "jade" is derived from the spanish term "piedra de ijada" or "lion stone".

During the Stone Age and Bronze Age, jade are used for axe, head, knives and other weapons. As early as 3000 BC jade was known in China as "yu", the "royal gem". In the long history of the art and culture of Chinese, jade has always had a very special significance, roughly comparable with that of gold and diamonds in the West. Jade ornaments are used to symbolize wealth.

It is the customary and traditional belief of Chinese people that the owner of the jade will be protected from bad luck, evil spirit and danger. In Ancient Egypt, jade was admired as the stone of love, inner peace, harmony and balance. In other regions and cultures, jade was associated as a lucky or protective stone.

Types of Jade

It was not until 1863 in France, the gemstone was proved to consist of two different material—Nephrite and Jadeite.

Nephrite

Nephrite consist of silicate minerals which consist of calcium and magnesium, nephrite belongs to the amphibole group of minerals. Nephrite is more common than jadeite. Nephrite are green, grayish green or white in colour. Nephrite has a vitreous luster, where as jadeite has a greasy luster.

Jadeite

Jadeite consist of silicate minerals that with consist of sodium and aluminum-rich pyroxene. Jadeite has many colour varieties and green jadeite is most recognizable as Jade. It is more commonly found as a grayish green and may also be in white, pale blue-gray or pale purple. Translucent emerald-green jadeite is the most prized variety.