Nephrite

Jade is a durable and beautiful mineral, one of two distinct mineral forms classified as jade (the other being jadeite). Highly prized for millennia, especially in China and the Maori culture of New Zealand, jade has been used to create exquisite carvings, jewelry, and art objects. By its nature, jade is a dense fibrous aggregate of minerals from the amphibole group, primarily the tremolite-actinolite series (rich in calcium, magnesium, and iron). It is this microscopic fibrous structure that gives jade its characteristic trait of exceptional toughness (resistance to fracture), making it an ideal material for detailed carving, despite its moderate hardness.

The color palette of jade mainly includes various shades of green, from light to rich dark green ("spinach" green), but can also be white (the valuable variety "lamb fat"), gray, yellowish, brown or even black. The color is often unevenly distributed, sometimes with spots or streaks, which gives each piece a unique character.

The name "nephrite" comes from the Greek word "nephros" (νεφρός), meaning "kidney" (via the Latin *lapis nephriticus* - "kidney stone"). Historically, this stone was believed to help in the treatment of kidney diseases. Although sometimes confused with the often more expensive jadeite ("imperial jade"), jade is valued for its own unique beauty, deep colors, pleasant luster (from vitreous to oily or waxy when polished), historical significance and carving skills. This is a great choice for both jewelry and collectibles.