Jade properties

The jade, christened by the conquistadors in the 15th century as "piedra de ijada" or "stone for the fossa", derives its name from its ancient reputation for healing kidneys and nephritic colics, and warding off evil spirits according to Amerindian legend.

This resilient stone is highly prized in decoration and jewelry, actually comprising three distinct minerals with similar appearances: jadeite, nephrite, and kosmochlor.

Alexis Damour distinguished between the first two in 1863. The term "jadeite" shares the same origin as "jade", stemming from the Latin "lapis Nephriticus" or "stone of the flank", in reference to the same Amerindian tradition.

Thus, jade is divided into two types: nephrite jade, composed of calcium and magnesium silicate, and jadeite jade, composed of sodium and aluminum silicate.

Jadeite exhibits a varied color palette, with green being the predominant choice. Ranging from pure white to black, and including shades of pink, blue-green (known as Olmec jade), dark green (Mayan jade), blue, emerald green, lavender, red, orange, and black-green.

On the other hand, nephrite jade showcases tones ranging from creamy white to dark olive green, with hints of brown or black, and its surface resembles a smooth, glossy varnish.

Buying jade requires caution, as there are imitations, notably serpentine, known as antigorite, which is dyed to resemble jade. Less expensive and much softer, it is often used for sculpting purposes.

Stories, legends and beliefs about the jade stone

Since the era of polished stone, jade has been utilized in the crafting of weapons, ornamental objects, and rituals, underscoring its spiritual and practical significance.

The Egyptians revered this stone, associating it with Maat, the goddess of justice.

The Celts of Ireland linked jade to Brigit, the goddess of the feminine principle.

In Greek mythology, jade was associated with the Moirai, the three goddesses of destiny who presided over the fates of men from birth to death, revealing its profound symbolic power.
The Greeks also recognized its therapeutic virtues, using it to soothe and heal the eyes by placing it directly on the eyelids or preparing a cleansing solution.
In elixir form, jade was employed to treat snake or rodent bites, as well as stomach ailments, showcasing its versatility in healing.

The Romans, on the other hand, linked this stone to Bona Dea, the goddess of earth and fertility, emphasizing its connection to nature and fecundity.

Jade, known as "Yu," has played a pivotal role in Chinese art and culture since ancient times, unveiling numerous fascinating legends.
It symbolized the absolute power of the emperor; in fact, the emperor possessed a jade scepter, and each of the five most important princes owned a jade tablet. Each year, they were required to return the tablet to the emperor, who would decide whether or not to return them based on his desire to retain them as principal princes.
According to Chinese mythology, jade is even considered to be the dried semen of a dragon, imbuing this stone with an aura of divinity and cosmic power.
Its medicinal use was so sacred that it was strictly regulated, with severe penalties for any damage inflicted on a jade object (such as the death penalty).
In funeral rituals, a cicada made of jade was placed in the mouth of the deceased, symbolizing eternal life and resurrection. It retained the energies of yin, preventing decomposition and ensuring a good reincarnation.
Associated with the goddess of mercy, compassion, and unconditional love, Guan-Yin, jade was also a symbol of marital love and happiness. This is evidenced by the tradition of engagements, where a piece of jade carved in the shape of a butterfly is offered to the future bride. Legend has it that a young man chased a multicolored butterfly into the gardens of a wealthy mandarin. Instead of being punished for his intrusion, he met the mandarin’s daughter and married her. This tradition aims to attract the same happiness as this mythical couple.
Chinese wedding festivities also perpetuate the legacy of jade, with newlyweds traditionally drinking from a jade cup shaped like a rooster, a symbol of fidelity inspired by a touching legend where a white rooster committed suicide to avoid being separated from his mistress.

For the Maya civilization, jade transcended mere stone; it embodied the very essence of creation. When Cortés demanded all of Moctezuma's treasures, he was astonished to receive jade instead of the coveted gold. Indeed, for pre-Hispanic peoples, jade was invaluable, surpassing the worth of gold by far.

In numerous tribes across Mexico, Central, and South America, jade was closely linked to water, with offerings of jade being cast into sacred wells or cenotes. This precious stone was also frequently used to craft masks and ritual objects, embodying a sacred connection to the natural elements and spiritual practices.

The Aztecs, on their part, associated jade with Chalchuihtlicue, the goddess of water and protection of children, whose name translates to "jade skirt." They also dedicated this stone to Coatlicue, the goddess of life and death, nicknamed "serpent skirt," thus emphasizing the power and symbolic diversity of jade in their religious pantheon.

In the tradition of New Zealand tribes, jade was intimately linked to the worship of water. The Maori, in particular, associated this stone with Hune-nui-te-po, the great lady of the night and goddess of death, thus imbuing jade with profound spiritual significance.
One of the most iconic artifacts of Maori culture is the Hei-tiki, often carved from nephrite jade. This pendant, representing an important ancestor, is worn around the neck by the Maori to merge their own mana with that of their ancestors, symbolizing a powerful connection to their lineage and heritage.

Jade, as a source of harmony and spiritual connection, was also used in antiquity to adorn homes through delicate sculptures, attesting to its aesthetic and symbolic value in daily life.

Mines:

For the nephrite jade, China, Russia, New Zealand, Canada.

For the jadeite jade, Guatemala, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, Kosmochlor (imperial jade).

Healing properties and benefits of the jade

Rich with its ancestral virtues, jade offers a multitude of benefits for both body and mind.

• By strengthening the heart, kidneys, and immune system, it enhances overall health.
• It acts as a blood purifier by stimulating the spleen, kidneys, and adrenal glands, thus promoting optimal blood circulation.
• Jade is also believed to have the power to increase lifespan and fertility, particularly in men.
• It is said to be useful in protecting the eyes and maintaining good vision.
• As a symbol of water, this stone aids women in having a normal and uncomplicated menstrual cycle.
• On an emotional level, jade balances nerves and soothes the heartbeat, providing peace of mind.
• It alleviates joint pain, especially in the hips.
• Jade fights bacterial and viral infections, including cystitis and genitourinary infections.
• Symbolizing charity, modest justice, value, and wisdom, jade embodies an inner strength and harmony that transcends time.

Jade jewelry samples