Jade is a healing stone, that has been valued for centuries in various cultures. However, it was also considered a rare stone, which meant that only the upper classes could afford to buy it. As the Jade mining methods improved and as international trade was established, Jade became more accessible to the ordinary people.
Jade is the umbrella term for the two different types of decorative rocks used for jewellery and ornaments. Jade can also be referred to as Nephrite or Jadeite. Nephrite is typically green, but may be yellow, white or black. Jadeite varies from white, to various shades of green; to lavender, yellow, orange, brown and black. Jadeite has about the same hardness as quartz, while Nephrite is slightly softer.
Jade was considered to be the "imperial gem." As well as being used to manufacture exquisite jewellery, it was used to create many utilitarian and ceremonial objects, from indoor decorative items, to Jade burial suits.
The Benefits of wearing Jade:
+Protection: Jade is said to protect against evil spirits and harmful influences.
+Good luck: Jade is believed to attract good luck, wealth, health, happiness and also friendship.
+Healing: Jade is thought to relieve anxiety and lighten any emotions caused by fear.
+Dream work: The wearing of Jade is said to help people dream and remember their dreams.
+Transition: Jade is believed to provide a gentle transition from this world to the next.
+Nobility: Jade was regarded as a gemstone of nobility, power and royalty in the East.
+Heart chakra: Jade is associated with the heart chakra and is said to promote feelings of love, compassion and self-love for the wearer.