Jade

The name "jade" actually refers to two distinct minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is the rarer, harder, and more valuable of the two, capable of achieving a vivid "imperial green" that commands extraordinary prices. Nephrite is more common, typically appearing in darker green, grey-green, white, or black. Both minerals are exceptionally tough — jade is actually tougher than steel, meaning it resists breakage better than almost any other gemstone, despite being relatively soft on the Mohs scale. This toughness made it invaluable for tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects throughout history.

Imperial jade is the most valuable variety — a vivid, evenly saturated green jadeite with good translucency, found primarily in Myanmar. "Mutton-fat" jade is a highly valued type of white nephrite with a warm, creamy appearance, treasured in Chinese culture. Lavender jadeite is increasingly popular in contemporary jewellery. "Icy jade" is near-colourless jadeite with exceptional translucency. Olmec blue jade, found in Guatemala, was sacred to Mesoamerican civilisations. New Zealand pounamu (nephrite) is considered a taonga (treasure) by Maori people.

Jade has been used for over 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously used gemstone materials. In China, jade was considered "the stone of heaven" and was more valued than gold for millennia. Confucius described jade's virtues as representing wisdom, justice, and humanity. In Mesoamerica, the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilisations prized jade above all other materials, using it for ceremonial masks, weapons, and offerings. In New Zealand, nephrite jade (pounamu) holds deep cultural significance for Maori people and is protected by the Treaty of Waitangi.

Jade symbolises purity, serenity, wisdom, and harmony. In Chinese culture, it represents the five cardinal virtues: benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, courage, and integrity. Jade is believed to promote emotional balance, attract good luck, and protect against negative influences. In Maori tradition, jade carries the life force (mana) of those who have worn it and is passed between generations as a living treasure.

Jade is tough but can be scratched by harder materials. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Protect from harsh chemicals. Despite its relative softness, jade's exceptional toughness means it is very resistant to chipping and breaking. Store separately from harder gemstones. Jadeite and nephrite can be worn daily with normal care.

Jade bangles are the most traditional and culturally significant jade jewellery form, particularly in Chinese culture. Jade pendant necklaces are classic and versatile. Contemporary jade jewellery combines the stone with gold and diamonds for a modern East-meets-West aesthetic. Carved jade pieces — from simple cabochons to intricate figurative carvings — showcase the stone's unique properties. Imperial green jadeite cabochon rings are among the most expensive coloured gemstone rings in the world.