Jade Gemstones | Gemstone Lexicon RENÉSIM

The "royal gemstone"

overview

Naming : The term jade is derived from the Spanish piedra de ijada and means "loin stone". When the Spanish conquistadors conquered Central and South America in the 16th century, they encountered locals who wore jade jewelry as a protective and healing stone against kidney problems. As it turned out much later, jade is a generic term for two different gemstones: jadeite and nephrite. However, since these are very difficult to distinguish, the name jade has stuck for both minerals.
Mineral group: Jade is a group consisting of the minerals jadeite and nephrite. It belongs to the mineral class of silicates and germanates.
Color: What characterizes a high-quality lapis lazuli is the most balanced color distribution possible - however, the majority of these gemstones have a striped or spotted surface.
Cutting : Jade is a very tough gemstone that is difficult to work with. Although jade is only slightly above medium hard (Mohs hardness: 6.5 to 7), the cleavage is hardly noticeable before cutting, which makes processing difficult. Jade is therefore usually cut into pearl shapes or cabochons. Cutting is very time-consuming and artistic figures, which are often made from jade, are a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Special feature : In many cultures, jade gemstones and jade jewelry were of great importance. In China in particular, it has been known for at least 8,000 years and was not only used as an artistic material, but also had far greater sentimental value.

Color

The color of jade includes all shades of green, but white or colorless varieties are also known. The most sought-after jade is emerald green.

carat

The carat number is the unit of measurement for measuring the weight of a gemstone. One carat (ct) is equal to 0.2 grams. There are several characteristics that influence the value of a gemstone. These include the carat number, color, clarity and cut.

purity

Jade often shows a special grain (such as small veins, spots or stripes), which sometimes makes it very unique and even more valuable.

cut

Jade is difficult to work with and is usually cut into beads or cabochons. However, there is also beautifully artistically carved jade jewelry and fine jade sculptures.

The ideal value of the jade gemstone

Jade has been known and coveted in China for 8,000 years. Jade is considered a "royal gemstone" and has an extraordinary significance in Chinese culture. Jade is considered a symbol of goodness, value and beauty. That is why jade was made into the finest cult figures and religious objects, which were even placed in the graves of emperors. Jade was also extremely valued by the Mayas, Olmecs and Maori. In some cultures, emerald green jade in particular was even more valuable than gold.

Special Jade Stones

One of the most famous jade jewelry pieces is the so-called "Doubly Fortunate Necklace" with 27 flawless jade pearls.

Special occasions

wedding anniversary

Jade is traditionally given as a gift on the 12th wedding anniversary.

deposits of jade

The main countries of origin of jade are China and Burma (Myanmar), but jade is also found in Guatemala, Russia, Kazakhstan, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

jewelry with jade

Are you interested in jade jewelry or a loose jade gemstone? At RENÉSIM we are always on the lookout for the most beautiful gemstones in the world and will certainly find a fascinating jade gemstone for you. We are also happy to create jade jewelry according to your ideas. Simply contact us with no obligation!