Jade - Classic Quality Jewelry

If I had unlimited funds I would spend a largeof chromium compounds. Other shades of green
proportion of it on objects made from jade, bothare due to the presence of iron compounds, while
artefacts and modern pieces. The subtle shadesthe pink and lavender hues are produced by
of green and lilac are what appeal to me. Jademanganese compounds.
jewelry is understated, rather than the "in yourMost people think of Chinese art when they think
face" obviousness of many other stones.of jade, and rightly so; as early as 3000BC jade
Jade is an incredibly tough material, stronger thanwas called the Royal Gem in China. In China jade
steel, and in pre-historical times was used forsymbolizes wisdom, justice, compassion, modesty
axe-heads, knives and weapons. It is only moreand courage.
recently that Jade's beauty has led to its use inJade is also found in New Zealand and in Central
jewelry and fine ornaments.America. It was treasured by Mayas, Aztecs and
There are two forms of jade, jadeite andMaoris hundreds of years ago. The ancient
nephrite. The two have very different structures,Egyptians admired jade too, attaching the values
but exhibit similar properties. The structuralof harmony and balance to the gemstone.
differences do not affect the uses to which theModern jewelry tends to favor the lavender jade,
jade is put, they are only significant to a collectorperhaps because it is set off so well by silver and
of gems.platinum settings. Jade bracelets, earrings and
Jade comes in a range of colors, from the highlynecklaces are all attractive to the modern eye,
sought after emerald green of "Imperial Jade" tosignifying good taste and expense just as much
delicate pinks and lavenders. The emerald greenas sapphires and diamonds.
color occurs because the stones contain a trace