Gemstone Spotlight: Jade

A highly cherished stone with rich history, jade has been coveted for over two thousand years

It continues to enchant buyers from all over the world today.

Platinum Imperial Jadeite and Diamond Ring

Platinum Imperial Jadeite and Diamond Ring

What is known as jade today actually consists of two different stones, jadeite and nephrite. Both jadeite and nephrite occur naturally in many different colors. Dark green jade is most valuable. Today, jade is mined in mainly Myanmar, but it can also be found in China, Canada and Guatemala.

Jadeite and Diamond Pendant and Chain

Jadeite and Diamond Pendant and Chain

Chinese Carved Lavender Jade Pendant

Chinese Carved Lavender Jade Pendant

Jade has been found in Stone Age settlements as tools and weapons. Its structure as a stone made it a common stone for carvings. In China, jade was extremely prized. It was used as decorations for the home of high ranking officials, and as jewelry. The tradition of stone carving in China is over two thousand years old, and animals like bats, butterflies and dragons were carved out of jadeite and nephrite.

Jade Carving of Quan Yin

Jade Carving of Quan Yin

Gold Oval Jadeite Link Bracelet

Gold Oval Jadeite Link Bracelet

In East Asia, jade was held in such high regard that high ranking officials would be buried in jade suits. In Korea, jade was found in ancient burial tombs. In China jade was used in many different objects, including brush holders, cups, bowls, and belt hooks. The bi, a circular jade disc with a hole in the middle, was known as a symbol for eternal heaven. The bi could be found on pieces of armor, and was often worn around the neck.

Oval Jade Hoop Earrings

Oval Jade Hoop Earrings

Jadeite Bracelet With Gold Spacers

Jadeite Bracelet With Gold Spacers

Carved Jade Necklace and Pendant

Carved Jade Necklace and Pendant

Platinum Art Deco Jade and Diamond Ring

Platinum Art Deco Jade and Diamond Ring

The high status of jade in many different cultures has led to the stone becoming a virtuous symbol. To many, jade is a symbol of purity, goodness, and beauty. It also is a symbol for wealth and nobility. Jade was also thought to cure ailments as well. In South America, people would hold pieces of jade to the body part that was in pain. In China, jade was ingested as a powder and was thought to bring long life. 

Lavender Jade, Amethyst and Diamond Ring

Lavender Jade, Amethyst and Diamond Ring

Jadeite Lotus Flower Pendant and Chain

Jadeite Lotus Flower Pendant and Chain

Jade, due to its rich history, is thought to have many metaphysical effects as well. Blue jade is thought to calm the mind, while purple jade is thought to soothe emotional pain.

It is clear that jade is significant to many cultures and types of people. It is still cherished today as as antique. Antique jade sculptures and vintage jade jewelry are widely prized worldwide and are great investment pieces.

Jade and Diamond Earrings

Jade and Diamond Earrings

18K Gold Jade and Diamond Earrings

18K Gold Jade and Diamond Earrings

For more jade jewelry, click here.


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