Introducing jade: a brief history that will interest even the most jaded reader.

Welcome to the most thorough yet concise and unbiased guide for jade on the internet. In the next fifteen minutes you can learn enough about this ancient gemstone to purchase with total confidence and peace of mind. Or, simply learn more about these ever-popular state stones of Alaska. Our mission is to inform and entertain, and if you like, we can connect you to some of the highest quality jade on the worldwide web.

Jade is without a doubt the oldest gem in the world. The ancient Chinese have treasured this beautiful stone since Neolithic times, and it is believed to bring great luck, carefree travel and health to those who carry and wear it.

This incredibly hard stone was first used for axes, knives and other weapons, and such artifacts have been found at archeological sites of the ancient Aztecs, Native American Indians and the lake dwellers of Switzerland dating back some 8,000 years.

The most valuable jadeite is found in Mynamar (Burma) which happens to be the source of the world's most valuable rubies as well.

From our jade center page, you can click on any heading of interest, from color and clarity, to treatments and cutting styles, you are moments away from understanding this gorgeous stone on a whole new level.

We've even put together a handy shopping checklist that you can print out and take with you on your jade shopping spree.

So, have fun! And if you have additional questions or would like more specific information on any of the topics covered in our guide, please feel free to email us. Our team of experts will be happy to assist you in any way we can.