What’s the difference between Jade and Jadeite?
Is it jade?
The term 'jade' is actually a catch-all term that encompasses two separate minerals. Nephrite is more opaque and traditionally used for sculptural objects and ornaments. Then there is jadeite, which is more translucent with smooth, glassy finishes.
Both jadeite and nephrite are considered "good luck” stones.
Why are they both called jade?
Until the 1860’s, when gemologists were better equipped to determine that their composition differs and they are in fact two different minerals, they were considered to be the one and the same mineral. Jadeite came into popularity around that time and typically comes from Burma. The jade use for adornment and carvings over the past 7,000 years in China is actually Nephrite. However Jadeite did make it’s way to China - also in the late 18th century.
Carving more intricate designs became possible with the introduction of iron tools. Several designs are common and symbolic in Chinese culture. A round disk with a hole in it symbolized heaven; a butterfly represents long life; and a dragon symbolizes power and prosperity.