Jade, Nephrite - Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

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Jade, Nephrite Gemstone Properties

Design Possibilities

Jade. The word calls up images of the Far East: pagodas, carved Buddha statues and mammoth golden fish swimming in clear, shallow pools. The tinkling sound of wind chimes. And the most verdant green imaginable. The most valuable jade is that verdant green. True jade is either jadeite or nephrite (nephrite is stronger). Ours is primarily nephrite from British Columbia. For a surprisingly beautiful look, combine medium to dark green jade beads with purple/ lavender amethyst beads. Create a green jade pendant to wear with a purple dress (display it against a deep purple scarf). You'll have a luxurious look that is exquisitely exotic.

Metaphysical/Healing Properties

For a sense of the spiritual value of jade, look into the face of a great carved Buddha. In that face is deep, enduring peace and strength. Green jade promotes that kind of strength. It offers physical and emotional well-being, especially during unpleasant or difficult situations, by helping us feel more grounded. Though we may not be able to change the situation, jade can help us accept and deal with it sanely. I don't even want to imagine life as a wife or mother without it.

Mineral Information - Nephrite	Nephrite, actinolate group
Chemical Composition	Ca₂(MgFe)₅(Si₄O₁₁)₂
Color	Light green
Hardness	6 - 6-1/2
Specific Gravity	2.90-3.02
Refractive Index	1.600-1.627

Mineral Information - Jadeite	Jadeite, augiste group
Chemical Composition	NaAl(Si₂O₆)
Color	Pale green
Hardness	6-1/2 - 7
Specific Gravity	3.30-3.36
Refractive Index	1.654-1.667

Shop for Nephrite Items

**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.

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