Stone of the lions

The splendour,application and exuberance of Jade has intrigued mankind for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence traces its use to some 7,000 years in form of weapon and tools. Broadly speaking,Jade refers to two chemically different stones – Jadeite and Nephrite. The name Jade originates from the Spanish conquistadors who named it ‘Piedra de ijada’ meaning ‘stone of the lions’ as per its utilization for curing kidney ailments by the Mexicans. The early Roman civilization considered it to be a good treatment for nephritus leading to the name ‘lapis nephriticus’. Over a period of time the names were reduced to Jade and Nephrite. Jadeite is a silicate of sodium and aluminum and is the most valuable form of Jade. Also popular by the name of ‘Burmese Jade’ which is the rarest form,it presents itself in an extensive and vivacious palette of colours. Green referred to as ‘Emerald green’ or the ‘Imperial green’ is most sought after followed by lavender,red,yellow,white and black in hierarchical order. The ideal one is a strong,lively colour while the progressive darker or weaker colours are less desirable. Jade often exhibits several colours in a single piece and also in rare and gorgeous combinations like red and green,white with deep green etc,although pure and uniform colours rule the market. Burma is its most important trade source. Nephrite is a silicate of calcium and magnesium and comes in much subtle and softer hues. It has been used for over 5,000 years by various mores and in many countries. Translucency is rare and the colours vary in shades of brown,grey,black and blue-green. One of the most extensively used gemstone,the consumer may be fleeced with fakes or colour-enhanced versions. This ‘Royal Gem’ of China has been given its due respect by Western counterparts and its enjoyed abundantly today by jewellery connoisseurs the world over.

(The writer is a city-based researcher specialising in jewellery art and can be contacted at sameeraahaan02@gmail.com)