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Jade:
Inosilicates (Sodium aluminum silicate, often with some calcium and iron; pyroxene group) NaAlSi2O6 AKA: Jadeite, Nephrite, Actinolite (variety of nephrite) |
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System: Monoclinic; crystals rare; usually in tough, compact felted masses of elongated blades. Appearance: Apple-green or emerald-green to white; vitreous, dull, waxy; streak white. Physical Properties: Hardness: (6.5 - 7.0); Specific gravity: (3.3 - 3.5). Cleavage: distinct, two directions at nearly right angles; fracture, splintery, uneven, difficult; translucent to opaque; brittle. Similar species: Jade has higher gravity than nephrite (variety of tremolite) or serpentinite, and is much harder and tougher than serpentinite. Occurrence: Jadeite is a metamorphic mineral and occurs with glaucophane in blue schist of regional metamorphic rocks, and with prehnite and vesuvianite in lode hydrothermal replacement deposits. The finest gem-quality jadeite (jade) comes from Burma, but crystals and masses of jadeite may be found in California. Miscellaneous: Semitransparent to translucent varieties of jadeite are called jade. Jade is a term used in the gem industry to refer to two different minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Precious jade is always jadeite. Jadeite jade colors are: white to green, and white with greenish spots, the most common; pale lavender is less common; bluish lavender; emerald green ("Imperial Jade"); silvery white; reddish-brown; and brownish-red. Value increases with transparency, color, evenness of color, and freedom from flaws. Jadeite is fashioned into beads, earrings, bracelets and cabochons for rings and brooches, or carved into ornamental objects. The name is from the Spanish piedra de ijada, "stone of the side", in allusion to the belief that jade could cure kidney disorders if applied to the side of the body. Conventional Wisdom: Jade is said to be of help in relieving kidney complaints, bladder trouble and eye problems. Yellow jade is believed to aid a poor digestion. When worn as a piece of jewelry, jade is thought to provide protection from one's enemies and can be used to protect one on long journeys. Also to attract good luck, for wisdom, for long life and a peaceful death. Helps to control dream content or focus. In ancient China and ancient Egypt it was widely used as a talisman to attract good fortune, friendship and loyalty. Provides balancing, soothing and cleansing properties. Most effective when used over period of time. Chinese credit jade with clarity, modesty, courage, justice and wisdom. Belongs to the Astrological Signs of Aries, Gemini, Taurus and Libra. |