Agate

Amethyst

Aquamarine

Aventurine

Carnelian

Chrysoprase

Haematite

Jade

Jasper

Malachite

Quartz Crystal

Rose Quartz

Sugilite

Tiger's Eye

Topaz

Tourmaline

Verdite

Jade (African)

It soothes, heals and balances. A soft and gentle stone, believed to promote a long and prosperous life -- wonderfully protective and very suitable as the first gem for a child. The name Jade was first coined in 1657, from Spanish piedra de la ijada, literally meaning loin stone or stone for the loins from the belief that jade cures renal colic. Jade naturally has a much longer history and is known under other names in other countries. A name given to two distinct minerals - nephrite (more common) Greek and nephros meaning kidney and jadeite - Spanish.

Technically there are two minerals comprising jade: jadeite, which is normally white to pale green, but sometimes bright green (imperial jade) or even blue/grey or pink; and nephrite, also usually green and has a fine texture. Used in ancient times for weapons, utensils and ornaments. (see also: Colour Significance). One of the toughest minerals known and probably most revered stone in Ancient China, representing the five cardinal virtues of charity, modesty, courage, justice and wisdom. Revered by many civilisations from China to New Zealand, a symbol of the heart in ancient Egypt and Central America, where a piece of jade was placed in or near the body of dead nobles to symbolise their new heart.

Almost all Chinese wore a piece of jade in one form or another to protect the wearer from illness and accidental injury.

Taken in a drink, it can strengthen muscles and harden bones. It is good for asthma and regulates the heartbeat and assists in the treatment of bladder and kidney problems, and old writings suggest that it protects the wearer from kidney problems. Also used in treating problems of the immune system, it cleanses and balances the colon, liver, pancreas, spleen and stomach.

Used in the treatment of high blood pressure, it is thought to be helpful in childbirth and promotes fertility. It also eases back and shoulder pain and helps with the purification of the blood. Used by ancient primitive tribes as a sacred stone, assisting them in access to the spiritual worlds. Brings good luck in games of chance. A soft and gentle stone, it is believed to promote a long and prosperous life. Good for flexibility and tolerance - a stone of friendship, it balances, calms and heals the mind and increases vitality. Said to promote morality and tranquillity, encourage endurance and purity and increase virtue, it relaxes and soothes the mind and reduces tension. (see also: How they Work). It puts things into perspective and inspires wisdom. It brings clarity, harmony, righteousness and serenity and aids dream work as well as bringing good luck and fortune.

Astrological connection is Libra (23 September - 23 October). Associated with the 35th wedding anniversary. Jade is used on the Crown and Heart chakra.

This mineral is available in many practical and useful forms