Jade – Meaning & Symbolism

Impression of the raw stone

“Harmony is not a destination, but the art of balancing every step.”

Jade is for those who seek balance and harmony. For people who believe that inner peace forms the foundation for prosperity and well-being in the world around them.

With its soft, deep green lustre and silky feel, jade is one of the most cherished stones throughout history. For thousands of years, the stone has been associated in Eastern cultures with good fortune, purity, and a long life.

No two stones are exactly alike. As a result, each bead possesses its own unique hue and character.

Why people choose jade

• Traditionally associated with harmony, prosperity, and good fortune
• A stone that symbolises balance and inner peace
• Soft, deep green hues with a silky lustre
• One of the most revered stones in the world for thousands of years
• Each bead has its own unique pattern and depth of colour

The Stone

• Traditional Associations: Harmony • Prosperity • Balance
• Origin: China • Myanmar
• Zodiac Sign: Libra

History

The name 'jade' originates from the Spanish 'piedra de ijada' ('loin stone'), as Spanish conquerors in Central America observed the local population using the stone for kidney and loin ailments. In China, however, jade has been sacred for over 5000 years and was once more valuable than gold.

Jade was used for the most exquisite objects: from ritual artefacts and jewellery for the imperial family to grave goods intended to protect the deceased. The stone symbolises the five virtues of Confucius: wisdom, righteousness, compassion, modesty, and courage.

Astrology & Moon

In astrology, jade is often linked to the zodiac sign Libra. Just like Libra, which always strives for balance and justice, jade symbolises finding harmony in life and relationships.

The stone is also associated with the planet Venus, the ruler of Libra. Within astrology, Venus represents love, beauty, and an appreciation for the finer things in life, themes that closely align with the traditional associations of jade.

Within Chakra Teachings

Within chakra teachings, green jade is inextricably linked to the fourth chakra: Anahata, also known as the heart chakra. This energy centre, located at the heart, is regarded in Eastern traditions as the seat of love, compassion, connection, and emotional balance.

The heart chakra forms the bridge between the lower (physical) and higher (spiritual) chakras. Within this teaching, jade is considered a symbol for the harmony needed to experience unconditional love for oneself and others, and to live from a place of acceptance and peace.

Interesting Facts

• The name 'jade' comes from 'piedra de ijada', Spanish for 'loin stone', because it was believed the stone could alleviate kidney ailments.
• What we call 'jade' are actually two different minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is rarer and more precious.
• In ancient China, jade was more valuable than gold and was called 'the stone of heaven', symbolising status, purity, and immortality.
• Thin slices of jade produce a beautiful, clear sound when gently tapped, and were therefore used in ancient China to create wind chimes.

Care

Jade is a collective term for two minerals: jadeite (hardness 6.5-7) and nephrite (hardness 6-6.5). Both are relatively hard and very tough, making them quite resistant to breaking. To prevent scratches, it is still advisable to store your bracelet separately from other jewellery.

Jade generally tolerates water and sunlight well, but it is wise to keep the stone away from aggressive chemicals, soaps, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Remove your bracelet when showering, swimming, or exercising to preserve its lustre and the quality of the elastic.

After wearing, you can wipe the beads with a soft, dry cloth. It is sometimes said that jade's lustre deepens through contact with the skin, as the stone subtly absorbs natural oils.

View the bracelet with jade in the shop →

Beautiful in combination with

Rose Quartz · Onyx

A note on meaning: the properties on this page describe what this stone has traditionally symbolised and with what it is associated within traditions and astrology. Mad Monk Jewelry makes no claims: we do not promise that a stone has a specific effect or power, or that it will bring about anything for you. What we do promise: a natural gemstone, carefully selected and hand-finished.

← All stones in the library