Jade is one of two gemstones, nephrite jade or jadeite jade.
Nephrite jade, (a silicate of calcium and magnesium), is the historical Chinese Jade, or Stone of Heaven, a stone revered by the Chinese for more than 5000 years. Nephrite is prized for its special qualities: its extreme toughness, (the toughest of any natural stone), its alluring translucency and a smooth polished feel.
Colors of Nephrite Jade range from pure white to all shades of green. All of the products from the Jade Mine are 100% pure, Nephrite Jade. No artificial coloring, dyes, or any treatment to enhance the color are done to the Jade Mine's Jade. GUARANTEED.
Jadeite Jade: (silicate of sodium and aluminum) A relatively new jade introduced to China from Burma in 1784. Gem quality Jadeite is extremely rare and thus extremely expensive. Often mislabeled as "Chinese jade," (it was never found in China), jadeite is slightly harder than nephrite jade.
Colors of jadeite range from white to black with intense greens and lavender being the most sought after.
Jadeite is often color enhanced and expert advice should be sought when investing in jadeite jewelry.