Vintage Nephrite Jade necklace with silver clasp

Vintage Nephrite Jade necklace - stamped Silver Made in China on the clasp Just over 16.25 inches long, the Jade beads are 4mm across New to Poshmark Canada? Use code STMTL when signing up and get 15$ off your first purchase! The name "Jade" actually applies to two completely different stones, nephrite and jadeite. They are both strong, colourful gemstones that have been prized by various cultures around the world for thousands of years. Nephrite Jade, a silicate of calcium and magnesium, is found in many countries, predominantly in Western Canada. It is referred to historically as Chinese Jade, or The Stone of Heaven, revered by the Chinese for more than 5,000 years. Nephrite is prized for its special qualities — its extreme toughness, (the toughest of any natural stone), its alluring translucency and its smooth polished feel. Colors of Nephrite Jade range from pure white to all different shades of green. Jadeite Jade (a silicate of sodium and aluminum) is a comparatively new Jade introduced to China from Burma in 1784. Gem quality Jadeite is extremely rare and thus extremely expensive. Often mislabeled as "Chinese Jade," (it was never found in China), Jadeite is slightly harder than Nephrite. Colours of Jadeite range from white to black with intense greens and lavender being the most sought after. Jadeite is often colour enhanced and expert advice should be sought when investing in Jadeite jewelry.