Jade has been worn in China for thousands of years, and today it is sold as bangles, pendants and bead bracelets under many names. This guide explains the names, the main forms, and how to choose and care for a piece.
What "jade" means
- Nephrite: the classical jade of China. Hetian jade is nephrite. It has a soft, waxy glow and comes in white, pale green-blue (often called cyan), green and darker shades. It is very tough.
- Jadeite: a different mineral with a brighter, glassier shine and stronger greens. It is slightly harder than nephrite.
- Trade names: many stones are sold with "jade" in the name, such as golden silk jade, and "white jade bodhi" is a polished seed, not a stone. They can be lovely, but they are different materials.
Check the Material line on the product page to see exactly what a piece is made of.
What jade is said to stand for
In Chinese tradition jade is linked with good character; an old saying compares the virtues of a gentleman to jade. The common explanation today is that jade stands for peace, protection and long life, which is why it is a classic gift for family members. These are cultural meanings, not medical claims.
The three main forms
Bangle
A solid ring of stone with no clasp, worn every day. Because it does not stretch, size matters most here.
Peace buckle pendant
A flat round disc with a hole in the centre, called ping an kou. The shape is commonly explained as a wish for safety and wholeness. No sizing is needed, so it is the easiest jade gift.
Beads
Bead bracelets and 108-bead malas on cord. They are lighter and less fragile than a bangle, and fit most wrists.
Jade pieces in our shop
Bangles, peace buckle pendants and bead malas. See the full Jade collection.
How to size a bangle
A bangle has to pass over your hand, so measure the hand, not the wrist. Tuck your thumb into your palm and measure the width across the widest part of the knuckles. As a guide:
- Palm width 70–74 mm (2.8–2.9 in): inner diameter 54–56 mm (2.1–2.2 in)
- Palm width 74–78 mm (2.9–3.1 in): inner diameter 56–58 mm (2.2–2.3 in)
- Palm width 78–82 mm (3.1–3.2 in): inner diameter 58–60 mm (2.3–2.4 in)
If you are between sizes, choose the larger one. For beads, measure the wrist with a soft tape and compare it with the range on the product page.
Colour and pattern
White and pale tones look calm and go with everything; greens are the most traditional. Natural stone is never perfectly even. Small clouds, veins and colour changes are normal, and each piece differs slightly from the photo.
How to care for jade
- Jade is tough but not unbreakable. A bangle can crack if it hits a hard surface, so take it off for sport and heavy work.
- Wipe with a soft cloth; clean water is fine, then dry it. Avoid bleach, perfume and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Keep it away from strong heat.
- Check pendant cords and elastic from time to time and replace them when they fray.
