Jade Properties
About Jade
Jade is widely understood as a green mineral with the hardness ranging from 6 to 7 on the Moh's scale, but actually, there are two different stones that are often referred to as "jade." The first is nephrite (a silicate of magnesium and calcium) and the second is jadeite (a silicate of sodium and aluminum).
Before we differentiate into these two species, let’s discuss jade’s properties in general.
Note: Jade is often incorrectly identified as "new jade" or serpentine.
The History and Uses of Jade
Jade is most typically associated with China. However, other civilizations worked with it, as well, including India and Korea, who both created stunning jade sculptures and artifacts.
For instance, in India, we can find a jade sculpture of Mahavira - one of the spiritual teachers sharing the knowledge about dharma in the Jainist tradition. The statue is unusual because it's 1.5 m high, and was carved out of one the most magnificent jade monoliths (a whole slab) that the world has ever seen.
In Korea, pieces of jade were found mostly in burial sites and pit-houses. Especially popular were comma-shaped pieces, typical for the Middle Mumun Pottery Period. Jade was also present on refined crowns of the monarchs belonging to the Silla dynasty, and in the jewelry of aristocrats from the era of Three Kingdoms. After Buddhism was introduced, the use of jade declined: modesty was promoted instead of lavish decorations, and jade stopped being so widely used.
Metaphysical Properties of Jade
Jade, with its vibrant green shades, is revered for its ability to support the heart area and balance the heart chakra. It is often recommended for individuals seeking additional emotional support or healing from a broken heart. Considered a stone of luck and good fortune, jade's light green color and mesmerizing white swirls exude a calming and soothing energy.
In astrology, jade resonates with Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Libra, making it a beneficial stone for individuals born under these signs. It is also associated with the 12th wedding anniversary. Jade's elemental affinity lies with Earth, symbolizing the lush greenery and life found in nature.
In the ancient practice of feng shui, jade is believed to bring balance, harmony, good luck, and protection when placed in living spaces. Its association with nature and its positive energies make jade a cherished stone for both its aesthetic and metaphysical qualities.
Metaphysical Properties of Nephrite Jade
Nephrite Jade possesses profound metaphysical properties that make it highly regarded in spiritual practices. Known as the Stone of Fidelity, it is associated with love, loyalty, and commitment.
Nephrite Jade emanates a gentle and nurturing energy, promoting emotional balance, harmony, and tranquility. It supports the heart chakra, fostering self-love, compassion, and forgiveness. This exquisite green stone is believed to enhance abundance, attract prosperity, and bring good luck. It is also recognized for its protective qualities, shielding against negative energies and promoting a sense of groundedness.
Nephrite Jade is treasured for its ability to connect one with nature, deepening the connection to Earth's energy and promoting spiritual growth and wisdom.History and use of Nephrite
Nephrite is particularly treasured in the Maori culture, where it was given the name pounamu, meaning treasure, and protected with the Treaty of Waitangi. Nowadays, the excavation of jade is closely monitored in New Zealand.
Energetic Associations of Nephrite
Nephrite is considered to be the stone of Libra. The primary chakra which will benefit from nephrite is the heart chakra; however, root chakra will be affected by it positively as well. Nephrite is meant to bring prosperity, and having it in your business’ cash box or shop may help you attract more wealth.
Metaphysical Properties of Jadeite
Jadeite, a highly valued gemstone, possesses powerful metaphysical properties that make it sought after for its spiritual significance. Known as the Stone of Heaven, jadeite is associated with purity, harmony, and spiritual awakening. It resonates with the heart chakra, fostering love, compassion, and emotional healing. Jadeite is believed to bring balance to one's life, promoting inner peace, tranquility, and harmony in relationships. It is considered a stone of abundance, attracting prosperity, success, and good fortune.
Jadeite is also revered for its protective qualities, shielding against negative energies and promoting spiritual growth. Its vibrant green color reflects its connection to nature, grounding individuals and enhancing their connection to the natural world. Overall, jadeite is treasured for its profound ability to uplift and align the mind, body, and spirit, facilitating spiritual evolution and personal transformation.
Jadeite exists in several shades: black, red, pink, violet, blue, brown, dark green, and white. Transparent jadeites are the most expensive ones; however, all jadeites are priced fairly high, as they are considered to be quite rare minerals. Jadeite can be found in only about a dozen locations in the world: Myanmar has about 70% of the jadeite supply, followed by Guatemala.
History and Uses of Jadeite
Light green jadeite from Guatemala was widely used by the Mesoamerican cultures, which gave it the name quetzal jade, from quetzal, a sacred bird in the Mayan tradition. One of the most impressive artifacts from the Mayan Classic Period is a pectoral with jadeite.
Energetic Associations of Jadeite
Jadeite is the birthstone of people born in March, and the zodiac corresponding to it is Aries. Like nephrite, jadeite mostly supports the heart chakra. If you are frequently bombarded by unwanted thoughts or feel stuck in a negative rut, give jadeite a try. It is said to help you release your grief, anger, and other challenging emotions.
