The semi-precious gemstone jadeite is a predominantly green mineral that is superior in hardness to granite - due to the similarity of colors, it is often confused with jade. Until the XNUMXth century, both of these stones were called jadeites, until mineralogists established the difference in their chemical composition.
In the trade assortment, nephrites and jadeites are often referred to under the common name "jade" to this day. However, jadeite, which is a rarer, harder and more durable mineral, is valued much higher (for the most part this refers to the "imperial" - a rare variety of the mineral).
History of the origin of the stone
Jade has been known to mankind since time immemorial. During the Neolithic period, the mineral was used by primitive people to make stone tools and weapons for hunting.
Five thousand years ago in China, jadeite was available only to members of the imperial family who had dishes and slept on pillows made of this beautiful stone.
Powdered jadeite has been widely used in Chinese medicine to treat heartburn, diabetes, and asthma.
Jadeite, which was considered a sacred stone and used to make necklaces, carvings of gods and cult amulets, was mined by the Aztecs and Mayans as early as two thousand years BC. In the culture of these peoples, the mineral was valued more than gold.
One of the most revered shrines in Thailand is a half-meter Buddha statue, made in the XNUMXth century from an unusually beautiful translucent jadeite with an emerald hue.
In the Middle Ages - after some depreciation - the mineral became available to wealthy Chinese. Wishing to provide a deceased relative with eternal life, they put a cicada (considered a symbol of resurrection and immortality), skillfully carved from orange jadeite, into the mouth of the deceased.
In the Chinese temple of Vophos, there is an almost two-meter statue of a seated Buddha, carved a century ago from a huge block of white jadeite delivered from Burma.
C. Faberge became a popularizer of jadeite in Russia (in the XNUMXth century), creating unique products from it for the royal court.
A necklace of jadeite magatam (ancient amulets shaped like a fang or claw of a wild animal) is still one of the three obligatory attributes of the power of the Japanese emperor.
For many peoples, jadeite stone is a sacred artifact that was used for religious sacraments. The Aztecs, worshiping the sun god, used the power of emerald-colored crystals. Figurines of idols and amulets were carved from jade. Today, in many temples in Mexico, carved embellishments from the mineral have been preserved.
The French geologist A. Demur, in his studies conducted in 1863, divided the green mineral ore called "jade" into two subspecies, which are now called nephritis and thirsty.
physical properties
Jadeite, which forms in rocks at relatively low temperatures and under very high pressure, is a chain sodium aluminosilicate.
Features:
- The chemical formula is NaAlSi2O6.
- The specific gravity of the mineral is 3,3 g/cm3.
- It has neither luminescence, nor dispersion, nor pleochroism.
- In nature, it occurs in the form of dense felt-like aggregates with a fine-grained structure. A fresh fracture of jadeite resembles sugar, sparkling with facets of countless and very small crystals. It is the fine-grained structure, clearly visible to the naked eye, that is the main feature that makes it possible to distinguish jadeite from jade, which has a fibrous-tangled structure.
- The hardness on the Mohs scale is 7, so the stone is polished with great difficulty.
- Let's dissolve in any acids.
- In the flame of a blowpipe, a small piece of mineral melts easily, forming a ball.
- The exceptional toughness of the stone makes it suitable for the finest carvings.
Jadeite deposits
Large deposits are located in:
- Chinese province of Henan;
- the states of Jammu and Kashmir (India);
- the US states of Nevada, Wyoming and California;
- the Guatemalan department of El Progreso (there are stones of a very rare blue variety);
- Mexico;
- Japan
- Kazakhstan (Itmurundy field).
- In Russia, a jewelry and ornamental mineral is mined at the deposits of the Polar Urals (Left Kechpel, Karovoe, Pusierka).
The best samples of jewelry jade come from Myanmar (former Burma). Mining has been going on in Kachin State since the XNUMXth century. Only here you can find precious stones of the "imperial" variety, which have extraordinary beauty and the highest quality.
Varieties of jadeite stone
Jadeite - contrary to popular belief, it can be painted not only in different shades of green. In nature, there are stones of white, pink, red, purple and blue colors.
It has been established that the gem acquires red or yellowish shades as a result of prolonged weathering.
According to the requirements of the trade classification, jadeites are usually divided into groups.
"Imperial"
The best jewelry varieties are "imperial": pure translucent stones, painted in emerald green. The cost of such stones, sometimes cut, can exceed the cost of emeralds.
"Utilities"
Natural jadeite of the utility variety is opaque and most often painted in a bright green color, although in nature there are stones that have a white matte color and a cloudy pattern.
Quite rare are black shiny minerals. The color of these ornamental stones is characterized by heterogeneity.
"Commercial"
Also devoid of transparency, they are characterized by the presence of small spots and transparent veins.
Painted in green or grey-green color, they are most often used as decorative ornamental material, and only a few samples are suitable for making jewelry.
Chloromelanite
Dark green, strewn with black spots, jadeites are called chloromelanites. They owe their dark color to impurities of sodium silicate, iron and aluminum.
Jad-albite
Stones of dense green color with dark patches are called jade-albites or albite jadeites.
The magical properties of jadeite
The compatibility of the mineral with the owner of the artifact on an energy level contributes to an increase in the strength of the impact by several times. The amulet, which has a huge supply of energy, continuously affects the life of the owner of the stone.
The owner of the magical talisman miraculously manages to avoid trouble, smooth out "sharp corners". The energy of the mineral helps to resolve conflicts at work, in the family, to avoid aggressive people on the street. Jadeite is an invaluable assistant in bringing happiness, joy and harmony into everyday life.
The green crystal is recommended for those who suffer from psychological complexes, it helps to increase self-esteem. Strengthening self-confidence, the amulet helps the owner of the gem to broaden his horizons, awakens optimism, and revives the desire to make plans for a happy future.
A positively minded person assesses the situation more objectively, chooses the most rational ways to solve life issues.
The magic stone jadeite gives a positive charge, therefore it is completely useless in "black" rituals. For many peoples, the mineral is sacred, contributing to the performance of virtuous, merciful deeds. It is not for nothing that the gem is kept with them during meditation. The crystal helps in spiritual development, brings good, lofty thoughts to the head.
Important! Jadeite helps to distinguish truth from lies, helps to expose a conspiracy, to bring the deceiver "to clean water."
Talismans and charms
It is believed that a jadeite amulet is able to protect its owner from the revelry of the elements: fire, lightning, storm and hurricane.
A jadeite talisman will help a businessman make a successful and profitable deal, one has only to hold it in his fist during its conclusion.
Possession of a jadeite amulet, which gives a person prudence, helps him avoid mistakes and unjustified actions.
The owner of the stone acquires the ability not to get involved in conflicts, helping him to build relationships with work colleagues or family members.
Jadeite is a stone that heals the microclimate of family relationships. He gets rid of unreasonable jealousy, forcing him to trust his partner, helps to find a common language with children and facilitates the process of their upbringing, prompting in time what they should be protected from and how to help.
A jadeite amulet helps to improve relationships after a breakup, helps to restore a fading feeling. The talisman of the family in the form of a figurine will save the hearth from everyday troubles.
Medicinal properties
The fact that the mineral has healing properties is indicated by its name, which in Spanish means "kidney stone".
There are two versions explaining the etymology of the name:
- The Europeans, who dubbed the gem jadeite, believed that it was able to heal a patient suffering from renal colic.
- They are often kidney-shaped.
Lithotherapists claim that the mineral heals the bioenergetics of a person, thereby improving his condition.
If you have health problems, jadeite jewelry should be worn constantly:
- The owner of the jadeite bracelet will gain vigor and can hope for the normalization of the heart rhythm. There is an opinion that with the help of a bracelet you can get rid of any ailments, especially psychological disorders.
- A ring with jadeite, constantly worn on the index finger of the left hand, can relieve eye strain and relieve myopia.
Jadeite necklaces and bracelets contribute to the healing of patients suffering from:
- cardiovascular diseases;
- stomach cramps;
- jumps in blood pressure;
- salt deposits;
- bowel diseases.
Also used in the treatment of:
- male impotence;
- female infertility and frigidity;
- diseases of the reproductive organs;
- catarrhal diseases;
- sleep disorders.
Green stones help to calm down and relieve stress.
Red specimens, endowed with the ability to improve blood clotting, contribute to the rapid healing of wounds. White jadeites eliminate meteosensitivity and activate the immune system.
Jadeite can be used to treat pets, you just have to put it next to the place intended for their rest.
Who is suitable for the sign of the zodiac
Jadeite, ruled by Saturn, Venus and the Moon, is ideal for those born under the sign of Libra. With his help, they will be able to build reliable family relationships.
The zodiac sign Virgo enjoys no less patronage. The support of the stone will make Dev more confident in their abilities.
Lions can count on the powerful energy support of jadeite.
For a person born under the sign of Capricorn, Cancer or Sagittarius, the possession of jadeite can only bring misfortune. Under the influence of a stone, he can become lazy, callous and mentally unbalanced.
Jadeite harmonizes well with representatives of all the remaining zodiac constellations, enhancing their positive qualities.
("++" - the stone fits perfectly, "+" - can be worn, "-" - absolutely contraindicated):
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Aries | + |
| Taurus | ++ |
| Gemini | + |
| Cancer | — |
| a lion | + |
| Virgo | ++ |
| Scales | + |
| Scorpio | — |
| Sagittarius | + |
| Capricorn | ++ |
| Aquarius | — |
| Pisces | + |
Jewelry with stone and their price
For the manufacture of jewelry - rings, pendants, brooches, beads and bracelets - use different types of jadeite (most often related to the varieties "imperial", "commercial" and "utility").
The gold setting activates the hidden energy of the stone, while the silver setting helps the mineral to have a calming effect.
When creating jewelry with jadeite, the jeweler most often gives the stones the appearance of a cabochon.
Gemstone jewelry is at the peak of popularity today. Many fashionistas have changed their image, opting for romantic necklaces or cabochons in ethnic style. Everyone wants to buy a green crystal for a talisman or make a precious embellishment with their own hands. Since jadeite is combined with different metals, anyone can create jewelry on their own.
The price of jadeite products depends on the quality of the stones used.
When evaluating a stone, consider:
- its transparency;
- color intensity;
- grain;
- presence of inclusions.
The cheapest (from 2 to 3 dollars per kg of crushed mineral) are utility stones. Jadeites of the "imperial" variety are valued above all. The cost of the most precious samples can reach 50 thousand dollars per gram.
- jadeite tumbling from South Africa, 1.5×2 cm in size, costs $1;
- a fragment of a mineral from southern Africa, 2×3 cm in size, costs $1.2;
- a translucent crystal from Italy, 3,2×1,6×0,2 in size, costs $30;
- cabochon, from deposits located in Russia, costs $35;
- a polished cut of jadeite brought from Khakassia, 11,6 × 5,4 × 2 in size, costs $52;
- a ball of Khakassian jadeite, 5,6 cm in diameter, costs $67;
- cabochon from the Yakut mineral costs $160;
- a luxurious bracelet made of solid stone, brought from Khakassia, costs $730.
Other uses of stone
For a long time, jadeite was used exclusively as an ornamental stone.
In addition to jewelry, he went to the manufacture of candlesticks, goblets, caskets, vases and writing instruments.
Chipped jadeite, which has a lower quality, but greater blockiness, is an ideal stone for arranging a bath.
This is facilitated by its unique characteristics: high density, optimal heat capacity, the ability to withstand heating up to 1000 degrees, without collapsing or deforming during sudden temperature changes, including sudden cooling.
For bath
"Bath" jadeite is used:
- During the construction of stoves for saunas and Russian baths.
- As a stone backfill for a sauna stove. Chemically inert jadeite, which does not react with water even at very high temperatures, contributes to the formation of steam, which has a healing effect on all organs (especially the respiratory ones) and tissues of the human body. It disinfects the air in the steam room, normalizes blood pressure and improves the condition of people suffering from diseases of the spine.
Jadeites are occasionally used in the manufacture of cutting blades for glass cutters.
A polished mineral is actively used in stone therapy: with its help, massage parlors perform a unique facial and body massage.
In ancient times, incredibly durable and heat-resistant jadeite was used for wall decoration in double rooms. Today it is used for interior design and construction.
artificial jadeite
The first attempts to obtain artificial jadeite by sintering flint, copper oxide, lead and zinc, kaolinite, nepheline syenite and orthoclase were made in 1952. The resulting product was far from a natural gem.
In 1984, specialists from the American company General Electric obtained synthetic jadeite, which has a structure and physical properties that are in many respects close to those of natural stone.
However, due to the high cost of production, the artificial product was not widely used.
How to distinguish a natural stone from a fake
Before buying a natural stone, sometimes you have to deal with some doubts regarding the originality of the product. In order not to be disappointed in the acquired jewelry, a step-by-step instruction is offered on how to distinguish a real thing from a fake.
- Find out more information about jadeite, study of appearance, manufacturers. Deposits of expensive samples are located in Burma.
- Familiarize yourself with the varieties of synthetic imitations. Serpentine, Aventurine Quartz or chrysoprase sometimes given out as jadeite.
- Examination in bright light or with a magnifying device. Graininess, blotches, fibrous weaves indicate that the stone is of natural origin.
- A gem that has a high density is somewhat heavier than it looks. By tapping the fragments against each other, it will be possible to determine the deep, resonant sound of natural stone.
- The natural crystal, remaining in the palm of your hand, remains cold, creates a feeling of soft and slightly soapy material.
Important! Jadeite is a hard mineral that can leave a mark on a metal surface.
What stones are combined with
Jadeite goes well with the stones of the earth element, they include:
- chalcedony;
- onyx;
- agate;
- crocodile;
- nephritis;
- sardier;
- lapis lazuli;
- heliotrope;
- cacholong;
- malachite;
- jet;
- turquoise;
- jasper;
- rauchtopaz;
- morion;
- rhodochrosite;
- Labrador.
Caring for jadeite products
Since, due to improper care and careless cleaning, jadeite can lose its natural beauty and unique properties over time, it should be treated very carefully.
The rules of care are extremely simple:
- To store jadeite jewelry, you need a separate case with upholstered walls.
- Jadeite products should be protected from dust, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and mechanical damage.
- It is unacceptable to store the stone in a room with high humidity.
- During cleaning, jadeite jewelry should be removed.
- Jade jewelry should be cleaned at least twice a year. To do this, it is enough to wash them thoroughly with warm soapy water using a piece of soft sponge. The washed jewelry should be blotted with a soft cloth and dry well. The use of chemicals is strictly prohibited.
Interesting Facts
In 2016, a huge (weighing about 175 tons) jadeite monolith was found in one of the Burmese mines. The approximate cost of the stone is at least 170 million US dollars.
The world's largest cut imperial jadeite was presented in 1980 at the emporium (exhibition and sale) of precious stones, held in the capital of Burma - Rangoon.
The cost of translucent emerald green jadeite weighing 750 carats was about 2 million US dollars.
