Jade Factory
December 12th, 2006 by stolisano
On our way to the Great Wall, we visited a jade factory. Jade is very important to the Chinese culture, they call it the Chinese Diamond. It is worn for good luck, protection against sickness, and as an amulet for travelers.
Mrs Inclan: Jade is comprised of two minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite. Jadeite is more valuable because of its translucence and hardness, as well as its rarity. Colors of the jade vary from white to green, but black, brown, and red can also be found.
At the factory, we were able to observe employees carve the jade. Since the jade is very hard, employees have to use special instruments that resemble the drills used by dentists. After carving the jade, they polish it to make it feel really smooth. Jade has a hardness level of 7-8.
In addition to see employees carving and polishing the jade, the video below will show the factory guide describe a “happiness ball” and explain the difference between real and fake jade.
2 Responses to “Jade Factory”
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Mrs. Menger’s Class wants to know if you purchased any Jade, if so was it expensive? Traditionally could any Chinese citizen wear the Jade? Or was it only for royalty?
Excellent information! I was wondering if the Mohs scale of hardness was used universally in China as well…and from what you say, “the hardness of 7″ it is. It is similar to quartz with a hardness of 7 as well….very interesting!