Jade

There are two different types of jade: jadeite and nephrite, with jadeite being the more valuable of the two.

Jadeite is a wonderful gem that occurs naturally in the following colors:  green, lavender, red, orange, yellow, brown, white, black, and gray.  The most valuable color of jadeite is known as imperial jade, which is a semi-transparent, emerald green.

Jade is a relatively soft gem, making it a great gem for carving.  Although soft, jade is a very tough gem (i.e. difficult to break).

Jade has been a symbol of status in Chinese culture for thousands of years and is also appreciated for its spiritual connection.