History and Significance of Chinese Jade Chip Necklaces

The History and Significance of Jade in Chinese Culture

Jade holds a deeply symbolic meaning in Chinese culture that dates back thousands of years. With its luminous green hue and smooth texture, jade represents many virtuous qualities in Chinese tradition like harmony, beauty, purity and balance. Jade was reserved only for Chinese royalty and the elite class for much of China's history.

The Confucian Virtues of Jade

Confucius wrote about the many admirable properties of jade over 2,500 years ago. According to Confucian philosophy, jade has 11 key virtues including benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, courage, decorum, loyalty, honesty, grace, purity, virtue and justice. The subtle, translucent color of jade was believed to reflect and bind together all that is good in the universe.

Jade as a Symbol of Immortality and Heaven

Jade holds deep symbolic importance in Chinese culture as it relates to immortality and the afterlife. Jade bangles and pendants buried in ancient Chinese tombs were intended to preserve and cultivate 'qi' or life force energy so the dead could transcend to heaven. Jade was also known by the name ‘Stone of Heaven’ and thought to connect the earthly realm to the heavenly dao or ‘Way’.

Jade Chip Necklaces in Chinese Jewelry

Jade chip necklaces containing small carved jade beads strung together on cords of red or yellow silk have become an iconic jewelry piece in Chinese culture. These necklaces symbolize harmony, luck, longevity and balance.

Styles and Designs of Jade Chip Necklaces

Contemporary jade chip necklace designs incorporate variegated jade nuggets, beads and carvings along both thick and delicate chains, cords and ribbons in yellow, black and red. More elaborate jade necklace styles integrate delicate filigree or coin pendants mixed with jade chips of emerald green, pale green, lavender and white.

Colors and Grades of Jade Gemstones

Jade gemstones used in traditional Chinese jewelry include both nephrite and jadeite forms of jade in various green hues along with lavender, white and yellow jade. The most prized and rarest variety is imperial green jade with a vibrant emerald color. Other colors carry unique meanings with lavender jade symbolizing love, white jade for purity, and yellow jade for nobility.

Authenticity and Testing for Real Jade

With natural jadeite being so rare and valuable, fake jade necklaces abound both overseas and within China itself. Always request certification of grade and origin when purchasing expensive jade jewelry. Simple tests to check for authentic jade include tapping two pieces together to listen for a melodious chime or rubbing the surface to check for a waxy versus plastic feel.

Caring for and Wearing Jade Chip Jewelry

While very durable over millennia, jade gemstones do require some special care when handling and storing. The structure of jade makes it prone to cracking and chipping if subjected to abrupt temperature changes or sharp blows. Follow these tips for protecting your precious jade necklace:

Storing Jade Jewelry

Wrap necklaces in soft cloth bags or fabric lined boxes to prevent scratches. Do not let jade bang against harder gems and metals which can chip the surface. Store in cool, dry places and keep away from direct sunlight which can cause fading and brittleness over time.

Cleaning Jade Jewelry

Clean jade gently using a very soft toothbrush and mild soap and water only. Do not expose jade to harsh chemical cleaners, ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Avoid drastic temperature changes like freezing or boiling during cleaning which lead to cracks.

Wearing Jade Necklaces

Wear your jade chip necklace with care as jade rates about 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale of gem hardness. Take necklaces off before rigorous exercise, gardening or cleaning to prevent chips and cracks. Do not spray perfumes, hairspray or tanning lotion directly on jade as chemicals can stain and erode surfaces over time.

Treasure and protect your meaningful jade necklace by learning proper care and cleaning methods. With ongoing care, an authentic jade necklace will bring good fortune and harmony for generations.

FAQs

What does a jade necklace symbolize in Chinese culture?

In Chinese culture, jade necklaces symbolize harmony, luck, longevity, balance, purity and nobility. Jade has been prized for thousands of years as an embodiment of Confucian virtues and for its deep spiritual meaning related to immortality and the afterlife.

How can you tell real jade from fake jade?

To tell if jade is real, tap two pieces together and listen for a clear, melodious chime. Rub the jade to check for a smooth, waxy feeling versus plastic. Real jade feels colder to the touch. Inspect for delicate veining, skin imperfections and subtle color variations which indicate genuine stone versus artificial.

What is the rarest and most valuable type of jade?

The rarest and most valuable variety of jade is imperial green jadeite, called Empress jade. This vibrant emerald green stone with a glowing translucence comes mainly from Myanmar. Fine imperial jade can be worth even more than diamonds.

How should you store and care for jade jewelry?

Wrap jade jewelry in soft fabric bags and store in fabric lined boxes to prevent scratches. Keep jade away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals which can fade color. Clean gently with mild soap and avoid temperature extremes or blows. Take off jade before rigorous activity to prevent cracking or chipping.