Jade is a compact, opaque gemstone ranging in color from dark green to almost white. The term is applied to specimens cut from the minerals jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite, the less common and more highly prized of the two minerals is a silcate of sodium and aluminum, usually containing some iron, calcium, and magnesium. It belongs to the group of minerals called pyroxenes. 

Jadeite crystallizes in the monoclinic system, but rarely occurs in distinct crystals and is usually found in fibrous, compact massive aggregates. It has a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7 and a specific gravity range from 3.3 to 3.5; it is extremely tough and difficult to break. The luster on fresh fracture is dull and wax like, but polished jadeite has a vitreous luster. 

Jadeite is chiefly found in eastern Asia in Burma, as well as in sections of Tibet and southern China. Jade was used in prehistoric times for weapons, utensils, and ornaments. A variety of jade called axstone is used by the natives of the South Sea islands for making hatchets. Jade has always been prized by the Chinese and Japanese as the most precious of all stones, and the most beautiful specimens of carved jade in the form of ornamental pieces, such as vases, bowls, tablets, and statues, many of which are now museum pieces, were made in China. Jade is a highly valued gemstone used in rings, necklaces, earrings and other articles of jewelry.

Magic & Myth

Sacred to both the Chinese and the Mayans, this stone is said to bless everything it touches. Often used to carve sacred artifacts, such as statues of the Gods, it invokes wisdom, peace, harmony and devotion to one's higher purpose. Said to be a "dream-stone," jade placed under one's pillow help in lucid dreaming. It aids the wearer in finding their life path and manifesting dreams into reality

Nephrite

Nephrite, a member of the amphibole group of minerals, is a silicate of calcium and magnesium, with a small amount of iron, generally replacing part of the magnesium. It is a tough, compact variety of the mineral tremolite with hardness 6 to 6.5 and a specific gravity of 2.96 to 3.1. Polished nephrite has an oily luster. It is found in Alaska, Mexico, New Zealand, Siberia, and Turkestan.

Magic & Myth

A form of jade with actinolite crystals within, this stone is an excellent balancer. It brings balance to yin and yang energies and helps to balance our relationships with our partners. It also helps us maintain equilibrium between our inner and outer worlds. It is use for protection and to stave away illness relieving stress and enhancing immunity.