Nephrite Jade
The Stone
Nephrite is not as hard as diamond, but it is exceptionally tough. Its microscopic fibers interlock tightly, helping it resist breaking and chipping. People used it for axe heads and blades long before carving it into jewelry and ornaments.
The History
More than 5,000 years ago, nephrite was being carved into ceremonial discs and blades. These objects marked status and played a part in rituals. Later, emperors commissioned jade carvings for their collections. The material had practical, ceremonial, and artistic uses across different periods.