Genuine jade bead necklace 21in

Description

A beautiful Jade Bead Necklace, Size 21in with clasp. Beads are 1cm each

Jade is a precious gemstone that has been highly valued for thousands of years, particularly in East Asian cultures. It is renowned for its beauty, durability, and the intricate carvings that skilled artisans can produce from it. Here are some key points about jade:

Types of Jade

There are two distinct minerals that are referred to as jade:

1. Nephrite: Composed of a fibrous matrix of the amphibole minerals tremolite and actinolite.
2. Jadeite: A pyroxene mineral with a more granular structure.

Characteristics

• Color: Jade can be found in a variety of colors, including green, white, lavender, yellow, and red. The most prized color is a vibrant, translucent emerald green known as “imperial jade,” which is jadeite.
• Hardness: Jadeite is slightly harder (6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale) than nephrite (6 to 6.5), but both are quite tough due to their interlocking crystal structures.
• Luster: Jade has a glassy to greasy luster. High-quality jadeite is more translucent, while nephrite tends to be more opaque.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• China: Jade has been used in China for over 7,000 years and is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture. It symbolizes purity, moral integrity, and nobility. Ancient Chinese used jade for tools, weapons, and ritual objects, and it remains a favorite material for carvings and jewelry.
• Mesoamerica: The ancient Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations also valued jade, using it for masks, jewelry, and ceremonial items.
• Maori: In New Zealand, the Maori people have a long tradition of carving nephrite jade, known locally as pounamu or greenstone, into tools, weapons, and ornaments.

Sources

• Myanmar (Burma): The primary source of high-quality jadeite.
• China: Significant historical and current sources of nephrite.
• New Zealand: Known for its nephrite jade, significant to Maori culture.
• Canada and Russia: Also important sources of nephrite.

Uses

• Jewelry: Jade is commonly used in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
• Carvings: Artisans create intricate carvings of animals, deities, and symbols.
• Ornaments: Jade is used in various decorative items, including vases, figurines, and seals.

Care

• Durability: Jade is tough but can still be scratched or damaged by sharp objects.
• Cleaning: Clean jade with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.

Symbolism and Beliefs

• Spiritual: In many cultures, jade is believed to have protective and healing properties. It is often associated with longevity, health, and wisdom.
• Feng Shui: In feng shui, jade is thought to attract prosperity and harmony.

Jade continues to be a highly valued gemstone, not only for its beauty and physical properties but also for its rich cultural and historical significance.