Jade

What Is Jade?

Jade is a timeless and culturally significant gemstone that has been treasured for thousands of years for its beauty, durability and symbolism. Unlike many gemstones defined by sparkle and brilliance, jade is admired for its smooth texture, rich colour and understated elegance.

The term “jade” actually refers to two distinct minerals:

  • Jadeite

  • Nephrite

Both are used in jewellery, carvings and ornamental objects, but they differ in composition, rarity and value.

At Clarindon Jewellers, jade is valued for its heritage, symbolism and enduring appeal.

Types of Jade

Jadeite

Jadeite is the rarer and more valuable form of jade. It is prized for its vivid colours, particularly imperial green jadeite, and its fine translucency.

Nephrite

Nephrite is more commonly found and typically appears in softer green, grey or creamy tones. It is extremely tough and has been used historically for tools, weapons and jewellery.

Both types of jade are celebrated for their beauty and strength, though jadeite generally commands higher value.

Origins of Jade

Jade has been sourced and valued across many cultures and regions, including:

  • Myanmar (Burma) – the most important source of jadeite

  • China

  • Guatemala

  • Russia

  • New Zealand (notably for nephrite jade)

Each region produces jade with unique characteristics, colours and cultural significance.

Jade Colour & Characteristics

Jade appears in a wide spectrum of colours, including:

  • Green (most traditional and valued)

  • White

  • Lavender

  • Yellow

  • Black

  • Grey

Key characteristics of jade include:

  • Exceptional toughness

  • Mohs hardness: 6–7

  • Smooth, waxy lustre

Jade’s durability makes it ideal for jewellery designed for everyday wear.

History of Jade

Jade has a long and rich history dating back over 7,000 years.

  • In ancient China, jade symbolised purity, wisdom and moral integrity

  • Mesoamerican civilisations such as the Maya and Aztecs valued jade above gold

  • Jade has been used in jewellery, ceremonial objects and talismans across cultures

Its enduring popularity reflects both its beauty and deep cultural meaning.

Meaning & Symbolism of Jade

Jade is traditionally associated with:

  • Prosperity and abundance

  • Protection and harmony

  • Wisdom and balance

  • Longevity and good fortune

Because of these meanings, jade jewellery is often worn as a symbol of wellbeing and positive energy.

Jade in Jewellery

How Jade Is Used

Jade is commonly featured in jewellery designs that highlight its smooth surface and rich colour, including:

  • Jade bangles and bracelets

  • Necklaces and pendants

  • Rings with cabochon jade

  • Earrings and symbolic carvings

Jade is often carved into meaningful shapes or polished into cabochons to enhance its natural beauty.

It pairs beautifully with yellow gold, white gold and platinum.

Natural vs Treated Jade

Jade may be:

  • Natural and untreated

  • Chemically treated or dyed

High-quality natural jade, particularly untreated jadeite, is the most valuable. At Clarindon Jewellers, transparency is essential, and any treatments are clearly disclosed.

Caring for Jade Jewellery

Jade is tough but should still be cared for properly:

  • Clean with warm water and mild soap

  • Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners

  • Store separately to prevent surface scratches

  • Remove jewellery during heavy physical activity

With proper care, jade jewellery can last for generations.

Why Choose Jade?

Jade is prized for its:

  • Timeless elegance

  • Cultural and historical significance

  • Durability and wearability

  • Symbolic meaning

Its refined appearance makes jade suitable for both everyday jewellery and heirloom pieces.

Jade Jewellery at Clarindon Jewellers

At Clarindon Jewellers, jade jewellery is selected for authenticity, colour quality and craftsmanship. Our curated collections celebrate jade’s heritage while offering refined, wearable designs.

Jade jewellery is ideal for:

  • Meaningful and symbolic gifts

  • Heritage and cultural jewellery lovers

  • Elegant everyday wear

  • Heirloom-quality pieces

Discover Jade at Clarindon Jewellers

Explore the beauty, symbolism and enduring legacy of jade jewellery at Clarindon Jewellers. Our collections combine exceptional gemstones with refined craftsmanship to create jewellery designed to be treasured for a lifetime.