Jade

Jade is formed from two different minerals, jadeite and nephrite and typically displays a green colour although in some instances yellow or white. The stone was highly regarded in some ancient cultures such as Chinese and Egyptian. It was carved and polished into a variety of items ranging from jewellery to ornaments. Jade had many symbolisms and was often associated with the dead. During the Chinese Han Dynasty, it was common for jade pigs to be placed in the deceased’s hands. The stone was thought to hold protective qualities and thus placed in many graves. It also resembled nobility and wealth playing a part in social hierarchy.