Jade

Jade, sometimes called "the stone of heaven", has caught attention and avid following from both the east and west. The desire for jade has both triggered and funded wars, uprisings and dictatorships.

The name jade has been used to describe both of its variations: jadeite and nephrite. Both are considered acceptable forms of jade, but nephrite is more commonly available. The name jade was derived from the Spanish nickname "piedra de ijada" meaning hip or loin stone; it was said to guard against harm, especially from ailments of the loins and kidney. The Chinese referred to this gemstone as "yu" for "royal gem." Like gold and diamonds influence the West, Jade plays an important role in Chinese history. It was being mined as early at 6000 BCE and has been treasured in the East since the Neolithic era. Jade became a status symbol of goodness, preciousness and beauty. In the Chinese culture jade embodied the Confucian virtues of courage, wisdom, modesty, justice and compassion. The 18th century Chinese Emperor Qianlong amassed an excessive hoard of jade. The collection was sold on the global market after the Imperial Court was ransacked during the Japanese invasion. Today, Jade is treasured for its splendor. Traditionally green jade is preferred, and its color ranges from deep emerald green to light gray-green. Hue is affected by iron and manganese deposits in the stone, and jade can be found in a variety of other colors, including pink, lavender, orange and brown. Jade will occasionally reveal lines and spots which are not considered imperfections. These dissimilar patterns are considered distinct and can add value to a piece.