Jade
Jade is called "yu" in Chinese; it is a common name for two distinctly different minerals.
Jadeite is the rarer form of jade, and it comes in a wide variety of colors including green, lilac, white, pink, brown, red, blue, black, orange and yellow. The highly prized Imperial Jade is a deep, rich emerald green due to its high chromium content. Jadeite is porous; when polished, it often has a dimpled surface.
Nephrite is tougher than steel. Its colors range from dark green (rich in iron) to creamy white (due to magnesium). Nephrite jade is often banded, striped, or blotchy with different colors.
The metaphysical properties of jade are derived primarily from Chinese culture. To the Chinese, jade symbolized the five virtues of wisdom, compassion, justice, modesty and courage. Symbols of these virtues are often carved into jade. Jade has been carved into jewelry for at least 2,000 years.
Jade is often called the "dream stone" for its ability to inspire lucid dreams that connect one to the spirit realm. Jade enhances creativity, imagination, and intuition. It instills resourcefulness and can help you realize your goals. It allows you to see past your limitations and manifest ideas in the real world.
Jade is a protective stone that can ward off negative energies. Jade of all types and colors is said to be particularly effective in safeguarding children against illness. Green jade counteracts depression and wards off evil spirits. Black jade is helpful when one feels under attack; it gives you strength to fight. Blue jade assists in relaxation and meditation. Brown or gray jade drains off excess energy and restores calmness; these colors also help one adjust to new surroundings. Lavender jade stimulates creativity; helps one understand dreams; and speeds recovery from negative love experiences. Red jade dispels anger and other negative emotions. White jade grounds one's spirit and aids in the making of good decisions. Yellow is said to assist in understanding the opposite sex.
Jade is a stone of Venus, the goddess and planet of beauty, love, luxury, and sex. Venus also rules Taurus and Libra, so persons born under these Sun signs are more strongly affective by jade. Jade's element is Water, and so it is beneficial to persons born under the Water signs Scorpio, Pisces, and Cancer. Jade the Tibetan mystical birth stone for the month of March.