Jadeite: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'jadeite' comes from the Spanish 'piedra de ijada,' meaning 'stone of the flank,' originally because it was believed to cure colic.
• Jadeite is a type of jade, which has been highly valued in various cultures for centuries, particularly in China.

Cultural Significance

• In Chinese culture, jade is associated with purity and moral integrity, often used in art and ornamentation to symbolize good luck.
• Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Maya and Aztecs, valued jadeite highly, often using it in ceremonial items and burial artifacts.

Geology

• Jadeite is one of the two minerals that are called jade; the other is nephrite, and they have different chemical compositions.
• Formed under high-pressure conditions, jadeite is mostly found in metamorphic rock environments, often linked to tectonic plate boundaries.

Market Value

• High-quality jadeite can be incredibly expensive, sometimes selling for thousands of dollars per carat, particularly in intense green shades.
• The demand for jadeite often fluctuates based on trends in jewelry and fashion, making it a dynamic market.

Color Variations

• While green is the most popular color for jadeite, it can also be found in shades of white, lavender, yellow, and black.
• The color of jadeite is influenced by its iron and chromium content, creating a spectrum that attracts collectors and enthusiasts.

Ranking #35,162, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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