Jade is most highly valued in Chinese culture today. The philosopher Confucius reportedly expressed this fascination by making jade a metaphor for virtue, kindness, wisdom, justice, civility, music, sincerity, truth, Heaven and Earth.
The Chinese associate jade with clarity of mind and purity of spirit. Some of the ancient symbolic motifs still used in modern jade carvings (both nephrite and jadeite) include: Bat—happiness. Butterfly—long life.
Since jade was extracted from high mountains and riverbeds, and mountains in Chinese culture symbolized a way to ascend beyond the Earth into Heaven, jade held power in terms of funerary rites and other rites associated with mysticism.
In China, the rich, emerald green gemstone known as imperial jade is a symbol of status, of purity, of deep spirituality and of good health. It is no coincidence that in Chinese writing, the character for 'jade' is virtually identical to the character for 'emperor. '
Jade is a popular gift and item throughout this time, as it is said to promote hope, luck and also signifies new beginnings. People will wear jade throughout the Chinese New Year period to ward off bad luck and promote good fortune.
In Chinese and other East Asian traditions, jade is believed to have spiritual properties. When jade breaks, many believe it has taken the impact of misfortune or negative energy meant for its wearer. Jade is thought to act as a protective barrier, absorbing bad luck and keeping the wearer safe.
Green Jade has been synonymous with good luck for centuries. Considered a highly protective stone, Green Jade has been incorporated into weapons and jewellery and used by many to promote healing. Today, it is incorporated most commonly into jewellery items and is thought to bring the wearer good luck and fortune.
In Feng Shui, jade is more than a gem—it's a conductor of energy. Carvings of Money Toads, Yuanbao (ancient ingots) or Pixiu (a mythical beast)are believed to attract prosperity. Jade's color also matters: Green represents growth and abundance.
Confucius elaborated his meaning in a passage from the Book of Rites: Anciently, superior men found the likeness of all excellent qualities in jade. Soft smooth and glossy, it appeared to them like benevolence. Fine, compact, and strong—like intelligence.
The jadeite deposits found in Kachinland, in Myanmar's northern regions is the highest quality jadeite in the world, considered precious by sources in China going as far back as the 10th century.
Jade affects the body's energy flow, and because of its ability to increase energy, wearing jade may not be appropriate for those with weakened immune systems or those who are ill. It can overstimulate the body's energy, exacerbating existing conditions or creating imbalances.
Yes, you can wear them if you're not Chinese. That's the short answer. The long answer is when people not from the same culture start to partake in it. Usually, it ends up being commodified.
Treasured and venerated for thousands of years, jade holds a special place in the history and culture of the Chinese Empire. Jade has been regarded historically as possessing mystical powers to ward off evil, and was considered by many as a metaphor for longevity, wisdom and purity.
In Chinese culture, jade is revered as the "Stone of Heaven," symbolising good luck and good fortune. It's believed to attract abundance and prosperity, making it a popular choice for amulets and jewellery.
Good Luck & Prosperity – Jade is often worn to attract financial and personal success. Emotional Healing – The stone is thought to calm the mind, balance emotions, and promote self-reflection.
Jade is so rare that it can be worth more than gold
The most prized jadeite comes from Myanmar, and high-quality pieces (especially those with a rich green color, often called "imperial jade") can fetch prices higher than gold.
Yes, jade is suitable for everyday wear due to its overall durability. However, care should be taken to avoid harsh impacts or environments that could compromise its integrity. Rings and bracelets, which are more susceptible to knocks and bumps, should be worn with a bit more caution compared to necklaces or earrings.
Jadeite Jade Quality Factors
Tiger's Eye, Pyrite & Citrine
Pyrite stone also known as Fool's gold attracts wealth and money in your life. Citrine is a healing stone that attracts good luck and tiger eye gives you inner strength and courage. The trio is highly recommended to those who want to gain a fortune and fame.
Because of its vivid color and delicate luster, jade looks great with both silver and gold. A silver jade jewelry piece will have a contemporary polished look, while a gold one will always resemble vintage jewelry.
While jade is known for its calming and balancing properties, it may not be ideal for those who feel overly grounded or resistant to change, as it enhances stability.
Heat from a jeweler's torch can harm jade. Jade is stable to light, and it can be affected by warm acids. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are safe for untreated jade. But jade might be treated by dyeing, bleaching and impregnation, coatings, or heat treatment, so warm, soapy water is always a safe choice.
Ward off Evil & Brings Luck
Throughout history, there has been a belief that wearing a jadeite jade bangle can offer protection against evil and ward off negative spirits. This belief stems from the stone's association with luck and good fortune.