What is Jade?

This incredible gemstone has captivated countless societies for millennia. As a result, almost every continent has seen a significant affinity to jade in its peoples’ culture, economy, religion, and jewelry. What many people don’t realize, though, is that we refer to two different gemstones as jade: Nephrite and Jadeite.

If you kindly choose to support our local business at Brady Mesch Design in Evergreen, Colorado, you can find high-quality Nephrite and Jadeite. We pride ourselves in carrying natural jade and other fine jewelry.  Our mastery of fine jewelry and dedication to the craft has kept us in business for over a decade.

Nephrite Jade and Jadeite Jade are two of the toughest gemstones on earth. They both come in many of the same colors and can be carved into elegant and beautiful designs. Jadeite and Nephrite are both used in jewelry and can be found in historical artifacts, sometimes seen at auctions, and praised for allowing archaeologists a window into ancient history.

Nephrite is commonly known as the jade of Ancient China, as jadeite jade did not significantly affect the Chinese market until the 1700s. However, at the start of the 20th Century, many of the beautiful pieces of jade jewelry that entered the US market from China were jadeite. So, when most people think of jade, jadeite is most likely what they’re imagining or has seen.

Jadeite Jade is often found treated, which damages its value, durability, and long-term appearance. For this reason, we recommend only buying natural jade from a trustworthy retailer like Brady Mesch Design. Natural jade is rare, valuable, tough, durable, long-lasting, and it maintains its appearance indefinitely, unlike treated jade.

We source our natural jadeite jade jewelry from Mason-Kay Jade, the most trusted jade supplier in the US since 1976. Every piece of their jade has been tested and certified as natural, untreated jadeite jade. Because of this, you can buy our jade with confidence, knowing that it is the authentic and long-lasting jade you have been seeking.

At Brady Mesch Design, we are continuously learning about jade. Thanks to our partnership with Mason-Kay Jade, our team is adequately trained in buying, selling, and valuing jade.

Please don’t hesitate to make an appointment and view our collection of natural jade jewelry in Evergreen, Colorado.