Jade
Two types of stones can rightly claim
the name Jade: Nephrite Jade and Jadeite. Nephrite occurs in light-
to dark-green, yellow to brown, and in white, gray or black. It
is primarily found in Taiwan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
It was used by the ancient South American
cultures in ornamental objects and as axheads. In fact, the ancient
Mexican hieroglyph for precious stone refers primarily to Jade.
Jade stones representing the heart were placed in the sarcophagi
of the dead. Maori tribes in New Zealand fashioned their legendary
war clubs and ceremonial carvings from Nephrite.
Jadeite is found in the same colors
as Nephrite, plus red and lavender. The green of Jadeite is more
lively and the most even, intense green Jadeite which is semi-transparent
is known as Imperial Jade. It is found in Burma.
Because of the way that Jade's microscopic
crystals link together, it is exceptionally tough and resists
breakage like no other stone.
Jade was used extensively in daily
and ceremonial objects of Chinese nobility, and represented high
rank and authority. It was commonly carved into meaningful shapes
such as fish, birds, bats, or dragons. The Chinese believed that
since Jade objects lasted so long, due no doubt to Jade's toughness,
that Jade was linked to immortality. Jade amulets were also buried
with the dead in China. Symbolic circles called "pi,"
which represent infinity, were carved of the gemstone. In Taoism,
the supreme heavenly god is called the "Jade Emperor."
The Chinese still revere Jade and believe that it brings good
luck, benevolence, purity, and enhanced intelligence.
Legends about Jade include a wide range
of healing influences of the eyes, nervous system and of
the organs, particularly the kidneys. It was worn in amulets over
the kidney area, and on the arm, and was reputed to magically
effect the removal of kidney stones.
Hardness
Jadeite: 6.5-7
Nephrite: 6-6.5
Toughness: Exceptional
Jewelry shown is not avaliable for sale online. Some
pieces may be available in our store, but generally, photos are
only to demonstrate the type of jewelry we make. Please contact
us at Foxfire Jewelers by emailing 
or by calling (425)-485-0625.
Our address is:
Foxfire Jewelers
14176 NE Woodinville-Duvall Road
Woodinville, WA 98072
