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Gems, Precious Stones, Precious Metals - Jade
Jade - Gem Color 8 - #00A86B
Jade is an ornamental stone. The term jade is applied to two different
metamorphic rocks that are made up of different silicate minerals: Nephrite
and Jadeite.
The English word jade (alternative spellings "jaid," "jadeite") is derived (via
French l'ejade and Latin ilia) from the Spanish term piedra de ijada (first
recorded in 1565) or "loin stone," from its reputed efficacy in curing ailments
of the loins and kidneys.
Nephrite and jadeite were used from prehistoric periods for hard stone carving.
Among the earliest known jade artifacts excavated from prehistoric sites are
simple ornaments with bead, button, and tubular shapes. Additionally, jade
was used for adze heads, knives, and other weapons, which can be delicately
shaped. As metal-working technologies became available, the beauty of jade made
it valuable for ornaments and decorative objects.
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