Useful properties of jade

Jade is a stone valued for its beauty and utility. The term jade is actually applied to two different stones: jadeitite and nephrite. Both of these stones exhibit very similar characteristics, having roughly the same hardness, color range, and ability to be carved. Jadeitite is the rarer stone, and as such tends to be considerably more expensive.

Jade appears historically throughout the world in various cultures, but is perhaps most well-known as the stone of China. Jade has been used in China dating back nearly seven-thousand years, used in both decorative carvings and more practical items. Throughout China’s history jade has been important, both to common people and to the various rulers.