Jade

The word jade covers two different minerals that look alike and have been treasured in very different parts of the world. Understanding the distinction is the first step in understanding the stone.

What it is

Nephrite and jadeite are both called jade. Nephrite is a calcium magnesium iron silicate in the amphibole group, with a hardness of about 6 to 6.5. Jadeite is a sodium aluminium silicate in the pyroxene group, at 6.5 to 7. Both are made of interlocking microscopic fibres or grains, which gives jade its legendary toughness: although not especially hard, it is very difficult to break, and this is why it was used for tools and weapons before metal.

Nephrite comes from China, notably the Hotan region of Xinjiang, from New Zealand, Canada, Siberia and other places. Jadeite comes mostly from Myanmar, with smaller sources in Guatemala, Russia and Japan. Colour ranges from white and pale green to deep emerald green, yellow, lavender and black.

History and culture

In China, jade, or yu, has been worked for many thousands of years and is deeply embedded in culture. It was carved into ritual discs and tubes in prehistoric times, into funerary suits and ornaments in the Han dynasty, and into the seals and ornaments of later emperors. In Confucian writing, jade became a metaphor for virtue, and the idea that a person of character should have the qualities of jade, such as humility and integrity, is a long-standing part of Chinese moral language.

In Mesoamerica, the Maya and earlier Olmec peoples prized jadeite, which they valued very highly, and used it in masks, beads and offerings, including the famous mask associated with the ruler Pakal. In New Zealand, nephrite is known to the Maori as pounamu, and pieces are taonga, treasured items passed down through families. Pounamu is protected by law, and the stone is regarded as culturally significant, so respect is part of engaging with it.

What crystal traditions associate with it

In many crystal traditions, jade is associated with harmony, balance, good fortune and steady wisdom, which echoes the Chinese tradition of jade as a stone of virtue. It is commonly linked with the heart chakra, and with Taurus and Libra in some zodiac lists, though sources vary. These are cultural and symbolic associations, not claims about effects.

How people use it

Jade is worn as bangles, pendants, beads and rings, and given as a gift on important occasions in many Chinese families. Carved figures, amulets and small objects are kept in homes. Some people use a jade roller or other object, and it is worth saying that such objects are cosmetic tools and that no claims are made for them here. Others hold a smooth jade piece in a moment of quiet.

Care and safety

• Jade is tough but can chip and fracture. Avoid hard knocks.
• Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, steam and ultrasonic cleaners, especially on treated stones.
• Keep it away from oils and cosmetics, which can be absorbed by porous stone.
• Do not swallow stones or place them in drinks.

Treated, dyed and substitute stones

Jade is one of the most treated and imitated of gems. In the trade, jadeite is graded A, B or C. Type A is natural and waxed only. Type B has been bleached and filled with polymer, and Type C has been dyed. Serpentine, dyed quartz, aventurine and glass are often sold as jade. A gemmological laboratory report is the only reliable check on an expensive piece.

Sourcing

Myanmar produces most high-quality jadeite, and the Kachin State mines have long been linked with conflict, corruption and dangerous working conditions, as documented by organisations such as Global Witness. If ethics matter to you, ask about provenance and consider older pieces or other sources.

A note on health. Crystals are valued for beauty, meaning and ritual. There is no scientific evidence that they treat health conditions. If you are struggling with your health or mood, please speak to a doctor.

Frequently asked questions