Jade

Jade: is an ornamental stone. The term "Jade" specifically applies to two different rocks, Nephrite and Jadeite, that are made up of different silicate minerals. Both types of Jade are tough, since they consist of dense, close-grained, matted aggregates, but they differ from one another in their chemical composition and colors. Nephrite ranges mainly from mid to dark green or grey-green, but it can also be white, yellowish or reddish. Rarer, and somewhat tougher, Jadeite displays hues which include green, but also white or pink, and reds, blacks, browns and violets. In both minerals, the way the color is distributed varies a great deal. Only in the very finest Jade is the color evenly distributed. Both Nephrite and Jadeite often have veins, blemishes and streaks running through them, though these may not always be regarded as flaws. On the contrary, some of these patterns are considered particularly valuable. It is important to note the term "Jade" is being used more commonly on the jewelry market today to refer to any number of stones that closely resemble Jade.