More On Jade

The history of jade (commonly referred to as yù) is strongly linked to China. In fact two types of jade exist: nephrite, and jadeite. Nephrite originates in South America, and jadeite in Burma and Asia - only coming to China in the 17th century, although it has long been prized by the Chinese and Japanese, as well as by pre-Colombian Mesoamerican peoples, as the most precious of all gems. The Chinese in particular are known for the objets d'art they carve from it.

This precious gemstone said to stimulate occult wisdom and universal attunement (red jade in particular gives out a very energetic vibration and can bring forth hidden anger to be faced and dealt with, leading the spirit to balance and calm), while offering protection, courage, vitality, stamina, and energy. Qualities that are often associated with the stone in its red colour are those of assertiveness and determination (even aggression), energy and passion, power and courage, protection and spontaneity, heat (fire) and blood, love and devotion. According to the ancient Chinese, jade represented many of their most valued attributes: courage, wisdom, mercy, justice, emotional balance, love, and fidelity. It often also signifies beauty, generosity, and purity, and health, wealth, and long life.

Jade is an exceptionally tough material, and was first used for things such as axe heads, knives, and weapons. Later, as other materials could replace jade as a weapons material, it became appreciated for its beauty, becoming considered as more valuable than gold or silver. Unsurprisingly considering its value, there is a strong tradition of giving gifts made of jade in China. Jade butterflies are still exchanged as a token between lovers, a jade phoenix was often given to young girls on their coming of age, and an amulet called "two brothers of heavenly love" depicting two men was once given between close friends.