What Is Jade?

Jade has fascinated people for thousands of years — but what is it, really? If you’ve ever admired a smooth green pendant or a vintage carved bangle, chances are you’ve seen jade up close. But this timeless stone is more than just its deep green color. Let’s break down what jade is, how it’s used in jewelry, and why it’s still one of the world’s most treasured gems.

Jade: A Gem With Two Faces

Here’s something cool: when people say jade, they’re actually talking about two different minerals — jadeite and nephrite.

• Jadeite is rarer and can show vivid, intense green. Think bright, almost electric green — this is the prized jade you’ll see in high-end vintage or Asian art pieces.

• Nephrite is more common, usually softer in color. It can be creamy white, pale green, or darker green shades.

Both are tough stones, but jadeite is the more valuable and more coveted for fine jewelry.

What Does Jade Look Like?

Most people think of deep, clear green — but jade’s colors are more diverse than you might expect:

• Rich, vivid emerald green (often called “Imperial Jade”)

• Pale greens

• Lavender tones

• Soft whites and creamy grays

• Even oranges, yellows, or black

Jade has a beautiful waxy luster that makes it feel smooth to the touch. That’s part of its charm — whether you’re wearing it as a carved pendant or a polished bead bracelet.

Why Jade Is So Special

Jade has been cherished for centuries, especially in East Asia and Central America. It’s not just about looks — jade is steeped in symbolism. Many cultures see it as a stone of protection, harmony, and longevity. In jewelry, it’s not unusual to see family pieces handed down through generations.

How Is Jade Used in Jewelry?

Jade is one of those stones that never boxes you in — it’s endlessly versatile, from old-school classics to fresh, edgy designs. Here are just a few ways you’ll see (and wear) it:

Carved Pendants

• Simple discs for everyday luck

• Detailed dragons, lotuses, or custom symbols

• Modern shapes: bars, teardrops, geometric cuts

• Framed in yellow gold or rose gold for extra warmth

Beaded Bracelets & Necklaces

• Single-strand or multi-layered for a statement

• Mixed with gold spacers, diamond rondelles, or pearls

• Stacked with other gemstone beads for color contrast

Bangles

• Classic solid jade bangles (white, green, lavender)

• Hinged jade bangles with gold accents

• Broken bangles reworked into charm bracelets or drop pendants

Earrings

• Carved jade drops in gold or platinum settings

• Jade studs paired with diamonds

• Bold hoops with jade inlays

Rings

• Oval or round jade cabochons in chunky gold bands

• Jade surrounded by diamond pavé

• Mixed stone cocktail rings: jade + sapphire, jade + ruby

Custom Upgrades

• Vintage pendants reset into modern lockets

• Loose carved pieces turned into rings or pins

• Jade beads integrated into watch straps or cufflinks

Design Pairings Worth Trying

• Jade + yellow gold: classic warmth

• Jade + rose gold: soft and unexpected

• Jade + black enamel: bold contrast

• Jade + brushed silver: sleek, modern vibe

At Worthmore Jewelers, we love helping you mix old jade with new ideas — think heirloom bangles turned into layered necklaces or classic beads re-strung with diamonds for a fresh twist. If you can imagine it, we can craft it.

Is Jade Durable?

Yes! Jade is famous for its toughness — especially nephrite. It’s not scratch-proof (no gem truly is), but it’s resilient enough for daily wear if you treat it with care. Many vintage jade pieces have survived centuries because of this strength.

Jade and Custom Jewelry

Thinking of adding jade to your jewelry collection? It’s a fantastic choice if you love meaningful stones that stand out from the crowd. Jade pairs beautifully with warm gold, delicate diamonds, or even bold modern settings.

At Worthmore Jewelers, we love transforming heirloom jade into fresh, wearable pieces. Or, if you’re dreaming up something brand new — maybe a statement ring or a one-of-a-kind pendant — we’ll help you design it just right.

Why Worthmore Loves Jade

For us, jade is more than just another stone. It’s history, culture, and personal style all rolled into one. It reminds us that jewelry isn’t just about sparkle — it’s about meaning, memories, and making a piece truly your own.

Bring Your Jade Story to Life

Got a family jade bangle? A vintage pendant that deserves a modern update? Or maybe you’re ready to design something brand new? Come see us.

• Discover our unique collections

• Experience our innovative approach

• Join us in breaking tradition

Make an appointment or swing by our Midtown or Decatur locations — we’d love to help you create something worth more.

MIDTOWN

500 L-3 Amsterdam Ave., Atlanta, GA 30306

404-892-8294

DECATUR

117 E Court Square, Decatur, GA 30030

404-370-3979