Originally, all jade objects were thought to be made from the same material. However, in 1863 a Frenchman, Alexis Damour, discovered that the material known as “jade” could be divided into two different minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Because these two materials can be difficult to distinguish, and because the word “jade” is so entrenched in common…

“Jade” is a cultural term used for a very durable material that has been fashioned into tools, sculptures, jewelry, gemstones, and other objects for over 5,000 years. It was first used to manufacture ax heads, weapons, and tools for scraping and hammering because of its toughness. Then, because some specimens had a beautiful color and could…