Chinese Jade

China has one of the longest histories of jade use, dating back thousands of years, and for this reason they have some of the world’s finest jade carvers. The main sources of jade that have been used for over 3000 years lie in the province of Xinjian in Western China, from several of the rivers that drain the Kunlun Mountains on the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert near the famous oasis city of Kohtan on the Southern Silk Route. The Chinese jade we source is a beautiful bright translucent green scattered with small black spots. When held to the light is glows an iridescent green and when carved has an even consistency due to its tight structure. Interestingly this stone isn't actually popular in China. Many Chinese customers search for pure stones with even bright colourations and as few inclusions or imperfections as possible as this is what they value most. The pure white or 'mutton fat' jade that comes from China is the most popular and easily the most expensive variety of jade in the world. Their jade grading system is similar to that of diamonds in that it's governed by strict guides of clarity, translucence, colour and hardness among others.

Esteemed by the Chinese throughout recorded history, jade is a symbol of love and virtue, thought to strengthen the body through life and protect one after death. In Chinese culture, jade is believed to be a link between the physical and spiritual worlds, and is thought to be the material form that most completely embodies both the yin and yang qualities of Heaven and Earth. Therefore, it is called "the stone of Heaven”.