Jade is considered one of the most valuable stones in the world. In the Chinese culture they gave it the name of “stone of heaven“, and it was used to carve the finest sculptures and more expensive accessories, for emperors and royals. Of equal form, in the Mayan civilization it came to be of great importance. Today, it managed to position itself as the world’s most expensive mineral, exceeding the value of gold.
When speaking of jade is impossible not to appoint the nephrite jade. Have you heard about it? There is still confusion over whether nephrite and jade stones are different, but no, they are not. Nephrite jade is a type that is considered by the jadeite jades as authentic; both of which they meet certain characteristics that make them unique.
Nephrite jade is very common, which is composed of iron silicate, calcium and magnesium. It is commonly found in green color, although they have also found stones in black, orange, brown and gray. To be easily found in the deposits, its price tends to be much lower than the jadeite class. However, this is a great advantage for those who wish to acquire a jade stone and cannot afford the more expensive variety.
In Asia, specifically in China, jade use was common. But jadeite was not the first stone used because their deposits were not. Initially, beautiful musical instruments were carved in nephrite, like small home decorations and certain tools. By acquiring some importance, this jade began to be used to carve sculptures and in important ceremonies. In royalty, when a special occasion approached, like a marriage, they were made huge and beautiful carvings in this material.
Because of its growing popularity, it began to believe that this stone had esoteric properties and also had the ability to connect with the world of the hereafter; so nephrite began to be used as a tool to establish a relationship between both worlds. They began making amulets in the form of medallions and pots, the latter were used to prepare elixirs emperors, as these believed that drinking liquids cooked in pots made with these stones, could make immortal.There is no difference between jade and nephrite, the latter is only one type of jade, because it is very easy to find, it has been used for thousands of years for the manufacture of various utensils. Currently, this stone is used to create beautiful pieces of art around the world, if you have the opportunity to purchase one, please do so, because of the features it has, it will be an ornament that will provide many blessings.
I looked up different range prices of these stones, and it is completely true that the nephrite is a bit cheaper than the jade stone. At least we have an alternative that is more accessible.