What is jade?

Jade is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that has been treasured for thousands of years. It is typically green in color, but can also be found in shades of white, pink, yellow, and lavender. Jade is known for its smooth texture and high level of toughness, making it a popular choice for carvings, jewelry, and other decorative items.

Jade is a popular stone in many cultures and has been used for various purposes throughout history. In Chinese culture, jade is considered to be a symbol of purity, harmony, and prosperity. It is often used in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have healing properties. In Mesoamerican cultures, jade was highly prized and used in religious ceremonies and as burial offerings.

There are two types of jade: nephrite and jadeite. Nephrite jade is more common and is typically found in shades of green, white, and gray. Jadeite is rarer and is known for its vibrant colors and translucency.

Jade is mainly found in regions such as China, Myanmar, and Central America. It is a tough and durable stone, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.

Overall, jade is a highly sought-after gemstone that holds cultural significance and is valued for its beauty, durability, and symbolism.