The Great Green Gemstone - Jade

The gemstone Jade has a long history with many countries with the main ones being China, Korea, New Zealand and India.

In the Yin Ruins of the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC to1050BC) in Anyang, Dushan Jade ornaments were unearthed in the tomb of Shang Kings.
Jade has been used to create many ceremonial objects ranging from front indoor decorative items to Jade burial suits.
Jade was considered the "imperial gem" from the earliest Chinese dynasties to the present.

Jade was used in Korea and was found in small numbers in 'pit-houses'. It was also used in Buddhist rituals and burials.

In New Zealand Jade plays an important part in the Maori culture. Amongst the Maori people Jade is considered to be 'taonga' or treasure and has been protected from exploitation and is now closely monitored.
Jade is found in the south island of New Zealand.
The most famous items of Maori culture made with the gemstone Jade are the 'mere' a short club and the 'Hei-tiki' a neck pendant.

Jade was used in ornamentation in prehistoric and historic India.
The Jainest Temple of Kolanpak, Andhra Phahesh in India is home to a five foot high sculpture 'Mahavira' which is carved entirely out of Jade, one of the largest sculptures made from a single Jade rock in the world.

There are many beliefs associated with the gemstone Jade where it has played an important part with the people in every day life in the past and to present day.

In Chinese culture, where Jade is found in the mountains and the river beds, it is considered to be "the essence of heaven and earth" .
Jade ornaments are a symbol of the noble bearing of a gentleman, so the saying "the gentleman's morals are like Jade".

New Age and Crystal healers belief that Jade has great healing properties and can be of great benefit to the wearer.
It is said to encourage practicality, wisdom, mental peace, tolerance of others, reduce fears and help during times of stress.

Jade is used to aid the liver, kidneys, immune system, thyrus, heart and nervous system.
Nephrite Jade is derived from the Greek word 'kidneys' and is still today a remedy used amongst healers.

Jade has a long association with sport as it said to simulate white blood cells and adrenaline.
Eastern athletes believe that the stone darkens when in times of superior fitness and lightens when illness occurs.

I now have a passion for Jade and as you can see from this there are many reason why.
I hope you enjoy the beauty of Jade as I do!