Jade

Jade has been known to mankind for some 7000 years, but in prehistoric times was known more for its toughness and was used for weapons and tools. As early as 3000 BC jade was employed in China as a royal gem and has enjoyed a long history in the art and culture of the Chinese empire. Over the years the people of Asia have placed a greater importance on jade than any other culture.
The ancient Mayas, Aztecs and Olmecs of Central America also valued jade – even more highly than gold. The Maoris of New Zealand continue to use jade in weapons and cult instruments, a practice that began in early times.
In ancient Egypt jade was admired as the stone of love, inner peace, harmony and balance. Other religions and cultures have also deemed jade as a protecting force and good fortune.
Today this gem is believed to be a symbol of goodness, beauty, justice, wisdom, compassion, and courage, not to mention, female-erotic!
Jade’s subtle luster along with its naturally toughness may be why it has been so appreciated around the world and down through the centuries. It comes in many fine nuances of green, but also in shades of white, black, gray, yellow, orange and even in delicate violet tones.