On the History and Metaphysical Properties of Jade

Jade today is used to create some of the most beautiful Asian jewelry. High quality jade cabs are mounted in settings made from base metal such as copper, or in sterling silver to create popular sterling silver pendants, bracelets, and other jewelry and amulets. But the history of jade did not originate with applications for jewelry. Instead, ancient cultures of the Far East first appreciated the hardness and resilience of jade before they came to accept its beauty. Its first applications were to make crude tools and hunting implements. Once they recognized its beauty however, they used it to make ornamental carvings including statues of Buddha, amulets, and other objects that over time gained religious importance. Ever since then, this mineral has been treated with great respect and reverence and has been given a place of honor in Asian cultures. Throughout East Asia, there are numerous temples - big and small - with jade statues of Buddha. Many of these temples were built centuries ago, and have withstood natural disasters, manmade catastrophes, and deliberate attempts to destroy them. They are today, icons of Far East religions and philosophy. The Jade Buddha Temple near Shanghai is the prime example of this. The temple has five large statues of Buddha that were carved from jade. In the past, the temple was destroyed five times. Each time, devotees rebuilt and reinstated the five statues.

With such an ancient and rich background, it is not surprising that jade is believed to have many beneficial metaphysical and spiritual powers. Jade has been used as a symbol of serenity, wisdom, and balance. In particular, it is considered to be the ultimate symbol of calmness and serenity. It helps release negative thoughts and also protects the wearer from negativity of those around. It is believed to alleviate anxiety and fear, encourage self-realization, and for centuries now, has been considered to be a charm for good luck and prosperity. Some believe that jade helps you focus on the spiritual and keeps you away from the worldly. This means that the stone in a way helps you disconnect from the chaos of the world, allows you to accept your surroundings for what they are, thus keeping you calm and serene. Others believe that jade is a gentle healer that helps resolve emotional or spiritual issues. It is considered to be the stone of fidelity and generosity. On the physical side of things, some Asian cultures believe that jade may be used to tackle illnesses of the lungs, kidneys, and the immune system. Jade and pearls are believed to compliment each others metaphysical properties. It is therefore quite common to see a white pearls necklace with three graduated jade beads at the base as the pendant.