Jade or “yu” (the Royal Gem) as it is known in Chinese, is a generic term for two different gems, nephrite and jadeite. The name originates from the Spanish “piedra de ijada” (loin-stone) with this gemstone being widely used as treatment for kidney ailments. Because of its link to the kidneys, the stone is also known as “lapis nephriticus”.
Jadeite is rarer and therefore more precious than nephrite. Nephrite deposits have been found in China, New Zealand, Russia, Guatemala and the Swiss Alps while jadeite is found in China, Russia and Guatemala, with the best stones coming from Burma (now known as Myanmar). It is a difficult gemstone for traders to purchase because it is only when the cutting process begins that the real quality is revealed. While polished nephrite has a surface with a resinous lustre; jadeite has a glassy surface which gives off a reflection and shine like a mirror.
Since jade is usually opaque with a fine lustre, the cabochon cut is best suited to it. The jade earrings on sale at the Diamond Store are flat oval shaped studs in gold mounts. Jade was once regarded as rather a traditional and old fashioned gemstone, but jewellery designers and gemstone cutters now offer some fabulous modern designs as you will see from gemstone jewellery on offer at the Diamond Store.
Throughout the history of the Chinese Empire, jade has always had a very special significance, being used extensively by the Imperial Family. This gemstone is still regarded as a symbol of the good, the beautiful and the precious and is rumoured to encourage creativity and mental agility.
The value of jade is determined by its colour intensity, clarity and transparency. These qualities are hard to recognise with an untrained eye. It is not unusual to come across fake or poor quality stones which have been coloured or otherwise treated, so is advisable to buy jade only from reputable dealers. The Diamond Store is run by professionals who have been involved in the jewellery trade for a number of years and who have an excellent reputation. The jade earrings on their website are being sold at exceptionally good prices at the moment because they do not have the overheads of staff or premises like a high street store, and can pass therefore pass some great savings on to you.
