Jade

The Stone of Harmony

A Journey Through Time
Jade has been revered across civilizations for more than 7,000 years. In ancient China, it was called yu — “the stone of heaven” — and symbolized virtue, immortality, and balance between heaven and earth. Neolithic cultures carved jade into ritual blades and ornaments, believing it held protective power for both life and the afterlife. The Maya and Olmec peoples of Central America used jade to honor their gods and kings, associating its green glow with life and renewal. From the courts of Chinese emperors to the sacred temples of Mesoamerica, jade has always embodied harmony, nobility, and the eternal flow of life.

Nature and Beauty
“Jade” refers to two distinct yet visually similar minerals — jadeite and nephrite.

Jadeite is the rarer, harder form (NaAlSi₂O₆), prized for its vibrant, glassy translucence and rich color variations.
Nephrite (Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂) is more fibrous and tough, typically found in creamy whites, greens, and browns.

Jade’s color palette ranges from soft celadon and apple green to deep imperial green, lavender, yellow, and black. With a hardness between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, it is both durable and carvable — a perfect balance of strength and grace.

Symbolism and Energy
In Armillas’ language, jade is the stone of harmony — representing balance, virtue, and wisdom. Across cultures, it is seen as a protector of the heart, a guide to serenity, and a talisman of purity and abundance. It is said to harmonize the body’s energy, encourage compassion, and strengthen life force. (Cultural lore; not a medical claim.)

Legacy and Meaning Today
Jade continues to be treasured in both fine art and jewelry. In Chinese culture, it remains a symbol of moral integrity, and in modern design, it stands for renewal and timeless beauty. Whether as a carved pendant or a polished bead, jade connects its wearer to an ancient lineage of artistry and spiritual depth — a bridge between human craftsmanship and the calm strength of nature itself.