Mountain "Jade" Meaning and Properties


Mountain "Jade" History

Mountain "jade" is a term used to describe a type of dyed or color-enhanced high-grade dolomite marble from Asia. Dolomite, also known as "dolostone," is marble with magnesium in it. The mineral was first described by, and then named after, the French mineralogist and geologist Deodat de Dolomieu (1750–1801).

The term "marble" originated from stone masons when a limestone, which is calcium carbonate, is polished up to a shine. Marble is a metamorphosed limestone, created deep within the earth millions of years ago, composed primarily of the mineral calcite and usually contains other minerals, such as clay minerals, micas, quartz, pyrite, iron oxides and graphite. Each piece of marble is like a snowflake: no two pieces are ever exactly the same.

Over the ages, mineral remains of the shells and skeletons of millions of tiny sea animals were metamorphosed into this strong, beautiful marble used for centuries by sculptors. Mountain "jade" beads are marble that is dyed vivid, gleaming colors.

Mountain "Jade" Metaphysical Properties

Marble helps to create balance in our lives. The darker shades help those with excessively high male energy by softening that male energy when it becomes destructive. The lighter shades aid those whose female energy is working overtime and making them feel overly sensitive. Wear marble whenever your life seems out of balance--like when you're starting a new job, or a new relationship, or moving to a new town or city--all activities that require some tightrope walking to get from one "place" to another.

Marble is also known to help recall dreams and is thought to help with serenity, mastery and actualization of one's thoughts. It is also used to help in accessing unused portions of the human brain.

Mountain "Jade" Geological Properties

Mountain "jade," a fairly soft stone, is a dyed or color-enhanced high-grade dolomite marble from Asia. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The resulting marble rock is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals.

Mineral Information Dolomite marble
Chemical Composition CaMg(CO3)2
Color White
Hardness 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 (Mohs)
Specific Gravity 2.85 - 2.95

Proper Care of Mountain "Jade"

Use water and a soft cloth to safely clean. Storing in a drawstring bag is a quick-and-easy way to protect the stone from scratches. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic and steam cleaning on mountain "jade."

To learn more about mountain "jade" and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.

Designing with Mountain "Jade"

Mountain "jade" is a perfect choice for fine costume jewelry designs. This stone can add accents of bright, vivid colors that resemble top-quality gemstones. Available in many different colors, mountain "jade" cabochons and beads can be used as pendants and strung for beautiful necklaces. Mountain "jade" is economical and versatile for a multitude of looks.

View design inspirations featuring mountain ''jade'' in the Gallery of Designs

Shop for Mountain "Jade" 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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