Jade
A guide for the history, meaning, metaphysical uses, purposes, crystal healing, and properties of the ornamental Jade
Stone of The Sacred
Jade, a beautiful and widely admired, if not revered, gemstone of exceptional class. Jade does, however, technically encapsulates two different minerals. The first being nephrite and the other being jadeite. Between those two, the Imperial Jade considered the best and is the most sought after. It may be known as Feitsui (翡翠).History
High quality jade has been revered by a variety of cultures, but specifically by those in East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Māori, and Mesoamericans. It did not garner the same reputation in most Western countries. Jade was valued as a precious stone for its virtuous qualities. Specifically, it was revered for its association with the those along the lines of the Nine Noble Virtues. The Chinese Han dynasty had preserved some members in tombs of Jade. Like many stones, there was its association with medicine. Jade was believed to help treat animal wounds, particularly those caused by snakes, treat asthma, and in general, improve lungs.
However, there is one organ that actually gave name to nephrite (jade). And that is the kidney. The word nephrite is derived from Greek Nephros, meaning kidney. Many regarded it as the go-to stone for kidney related issues. Interestingly, one of the most common remedies for nephrite would be kidney stones. The stone was also revered by the Māori, though there are other varieties of greenstones used in related societies. Finally, it also found a proper home in Mesoamerica.
In short, Jade holds immense historical significance in the realm of carving and ornamentation. Dating back thousands of years, this precious stone has been highly revered and sought after by ancient civilizations across various cultures. In countless societies, jade was regarded as a symbol of prestige, power, and divine connections. Its captivating beauty, unique toughness, and mesmerizing color variations made it a favorite material for creating intricate carvings, jewelry, and decorative objects.
In ancient China, jade held profound cultural and spiritual significance. It was believed to possess life-giving properties and was associated with immortality. Jade carvings were often crafted into symbolic shapes, such as dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures, representing virtues like wisdom, prosperity, and protection. Emperors adorned themselves with jade jewelry, signifying their divine right to rule. Similarly, in ancient Mesoamerica, the Maya, Aztec, and Olmec civilizations held jade in the highest esteem. Jade carvings were found in sacred spaces, burials, and exquisite royal artifacts. These carvings often depicted deities, animals, and revered symbols, serving as powerful talismans and objects of worship.
Scientific Information
Jade Pronunciation: /dʒeɪd/ (jay-d)
Hardness: 6 (Jadeite)
Crystal System: Monoclinic (Jadeite)
Etymology: From Spanish "piedra de ijada," meaning "stone of the flank." This refers to the belief that the stone could heal kidney stones and other kidney related issues. Nephrite has a similar etymological origin. Nephrite from Latin "Lapis Nephriticus," meaning "kidney stone," also referring to the kidney healing powers.
Location: Canada, China, and Russia.
Metaphysical Properties
This sacred stone will assist many in their mission for seeking the truth and opening their mind. It is frequently used as a meditation stone for those who wish to become more compassionate or enlightened. Some also use the stone in sleep to receive dreams that will help them see the right path for them to embark on.
Jade is a lovely stone that is often used for people who are serious about direction and edification. Others are dreamers who wish to see visions that may allow them to become more spiritually rigid.
Crystal healers argue that Jade, with its rich positive energy and strong connections to the heart, has the ability to bring joy to a variety of zodiac signs rather than being limited to just one. They claim it finds compatibility with Taurus, Gemini, Libra, and Aries.
Crystal healers state that these signs appreciate Jade for its soothing and cooling properties, its confidence-instilling nature, as well as its ability to anchor and nurture the heart. Jade's versatility and affinity for these signs make it a popular choice for those seeking a compatible gemstone.
It is important to note that these are the claims of crystal healers, and there is no scientific basis for the claimed metaphysical properties of jade.
The Wrap Up
It's no surprise that jade is one of the most popular gemstones, even in the West, where its role has been, historically speaking, less prominent. However, its beauty alone has earned it a rightful place near the top. It has earned a great deal of respect and admiration, too, for its sacred and spiritual position in various cultures.
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Crystals and gemstones are nature's true beauties, but they are not a substitute for seeking professional medical, legal, health, or financial advice. Crystals and gemstones are to be used in conjunction with any professional care you are receiving and do not provide healing, cures, or other remedies modern medicine can provide. The information provided in our listings with regard to the powers of crystals and gemstones are all derived from personal & professional experience with crystals & gems as well as ancient wisdom and texts documenting knowledge gained from civilizations around the world. They are not backed by the FDA or scientific/government resources. Our crystals & gemstones are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or malady. Our crystals and gemstones are also not a replacement for seeking professional legal advice, financial advising, or any other field of professional expertise. Crystals and gemstones are intended to be appreciated for their natural power and beauty, and used alongside modern, professional methods.
Sources
https://www.mindat.org/min-2881.html
https://www.mindat.org/min-2062.html
https://www.mindat.org/min-10403.html
Kozminsky, Isidore. The Magic and Science of Jewels and Stones. New York, The Knickerbocker Press, 1922.
Kunz, George Frederick. The Curious Lore of Precious Stones. Philadelphia, J. B. Lippincott Company, 1913.