Jade: benefits, origins and meanings

Jade, a symbol of wisdom, purity and serenity, is a natural stone prized for its unique brilliance and healing properties. This bewitchingly beautiful gemstone comes in a palette of colors ranging from deep, soothing green to yellow and white. Used since time immemorial to create exceptional jewelry and objets d'art, jade continues to fascinate with its timeless allure.
You too can create sumptuous costume jewelry using our jewelry components and jade beads, and be inspired by our free natural stone jewelry tutorials.

What is the significance of jade stone?

This natural stone takes its name from the Spanish"piedra de ijada", meaning "flank stone". It was the Spanish conquistadors who gave it this name in the early 16th century, as pre-Columbian peoples believed it to be used to relieve nephritic pain. In France, it was discovered in the 17th century and renamed "éjade", then "jade".

Stories about jade

This gemstone is surrounded by myths and legends, particularly in Asia, where it is venerated for its spiritual and protective properties.

As far back as 5,000 years ago, the Chinese used jade to make jewelry reserved for the elite, as well as ritual and funerary objects. Nicknamed the "Stone of Heaven", they considered it a stone of wisdom, purity and longevity. A symbol of eternal life, it was also considered a bridge between the world of the living and that of spirits, used in imperial tombs to protect the deceased in the afterlife.

In Chinese mythology, theJade Emperor is one of the most important deities in the Taoist pantheon. He is often depicted with jade objects, symbolizing his divine authority and infinite wisdom.

In many Chinese families, this fine stone is worn to protect against evil spirits and negative energies. When used in amulets and talismans, it is believed to absorb evil influences and protect the wearer. There's even a popular belief that if a piece of jade jewelry breaks, it's because it has absorbed a blow intended for its owner, protecting him or her from danger.

Jade dragons are powerful symbols in China, representing strength, wisdom and protection. Ancient legend has it that a jade dragon watches over the mountains and rivers of China, guaranteeing harmony between the natural elements and human beings. Jade dragon sculptures are still revered today for their protective properties.

Among the ancient Maya, jade was often associated with power and immortality. Mayan rulers wore this stone to demonstrate their divine authority, and believed it could guarantee the immortality of their souls after death. Jade amulets were buried with the rulers to protect them in the afterlife.
Among the Aztecs and Olmecs, it had a spiritual and symbolic value far superior to that of gold. It was considered the stone of immortality, royalty and power. It was often used to create funeral masks, jewelry and ritual objects.

In New Zealand, Maoris used it to make tools, weapons (such as axes and blades) and jewelry (notably hei-tiki pendants).

What are the properties of jade?

There are two types of jade: jadeite and nephrite.

Its hardness ranges from 6 (nephrite) to 7 (jadeite) on the Mohs scale. Its density is between 2.8 and 3.3 g/cm³.

What color is jade?

Often associated with the color green, this natural stone comes in a wide range of colors.
Jadeite can be blue, red, white, yellow, pale green or intense green. Pale jade is often tinted to offer a wide range of hues.
Nephrite ranges in color from white to dark green, brown, blue-gray and even black.

Intense green imperial jade is particularly sought-after.

Because of its green color, it is sometimes mistaken for aventurine, serpentine, chrysoprase, prehnite or green jasper.

Where to find jade

The main deposits are in Burma, Canada, China, Guatemala, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, Italy and the United States.

What are the benefits of jade stone?

In lithotherapy, it is considered a stone of protection and balance. It is said to bring calm and serenity, helping to soothe the mind. It acts as a shield to eliminate negative thoughts. Some believe it attracts luck, abundance and prosperity.

Which chakra for jade? Associated with the heart chakra, it promotes harmony, inner peace and self-love.

How to purify and recharge jade?

To reap the full benefits of this gemstone, it's important to purify and recharge it regularly.
You can purify your stone by running it under running water or placing it in sage smoke.
To recharge, expose it to moonlight, preferably during a full moon, or place it on a quartz cluster to amplify its energy.

How to wear jade

This natural stone has so many colors that cool tones suit it just as well as warm ones. It is ideal for stainless steel or 925 silver jewelry settings. Gold-plated or gold-filled gives it a chic, sophisticated look. Bronze, with its antique gold hue, offers a beautiful harmony.

Which stone to associate with jade? In lithotherapy, jade can be associated with several other stones to reinforce or complement its energies, such asaquamarine,agate, pink tourmaline,green aventurine, pyrite, citrine or serpentine. On the other hand, avoid combining it with tiger's eye, malachite and turquoise. Such combinations could detract from the desired effect.