Jade has long been fashioned into statues, weapons, utensils and other ornaments.
The Chinese have cherished this green, fine-textured gem for many centuries. In Chinese culture it represents the five cardinal virtues namely; Charity, Modesty, Courage, Justice and Wisdom.
You might have seen a Buddha carved from Jade, or heard of Jade daggers. The reason that these objects are formed from this stone is due to its many properties. It is most valued for its metaphysical properties, and is the ultimate “Dream Stone.” It is believed to bring luck to its wearer in all games of luck and chance, to cure kidney stones and bladder problems, and also promotes a long and prosperous life, among a list of many.
There are in actual fact two gems that are referred to as Jade, which was only recognised in 1863.
The first is a gem called Jadeite, or Imperial Jade. Jadeite is found In Burma, Japan, Guatemala and California. Jadeite occurs in a whole variety of colours from white to pink, blue and even black.
The other variety is Nephrite. This gem only occurs in green, but what a large variety of shades, from pale washed out green, to deep dark green. This is the stone that the whole of the eastern world cherishes. Nephrite is found in central Asia, Siberia (Dark green with black spots) Russia (spinach coloured), New Zealand, USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Taiwan, Zimbabwe, Italy, Poland, Germany, and Switzerland. This is the variety that is carved into the most delicate and finely worked ornaments and pieces.
Due to the demand for this gem in the East, Jade is very scarce and extremely expensive in South Africa.
— Zak
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