Jade is a beautiful gemstone that has been prized for centuries for its beauty and durability. While jade comes in a range of colors, including white, black, purple, yellow, and red, green is the most common and well-known color of jade. Interestingly, jade can change color when it is worn, and often turns green. In this article, we will explore why jade turns green when you wear it.
What is Jade?
Before we dive into why jade turns green when you wear it, let’s first discuss what jade is. Jade is a mineral that is composed of two different minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Both of these minerals are tough and durable, making jade a popular material for carvings, jewelry, and other decorative items. Jade comes in a range of colors, including green, white, black, purple, yellow, and red, with green being the most common and popular color of jade.
Why Does Jade Turn Green When You Wear It?
While jade can come in a range of colors, including white, black, purple, yellow, and red, green is the most common and well-known color of jade. Interestingly, jade can change color when it is worn, and often turns green. So why does this happen?
The answer lies in the chemical composition of jade. The green color in jade comes from the presence of chromium and iron. These elements are present in small amounts within the mineral, and they absorb certain wavelengths of light, giving jade its characteristic green color. When jade is exposed to sunlight or heat, the chromium and iron within the mineral become more active, causing the color of the jade to deepen and become more intense.
When you wear jade, the temperature of your skin and the surrounding environment causes the chromium and iron within the mineral to become more active, causing the jade to deepen in color and often turn green. The longer you wear jade, the more it will change color and deepen in hue.
Factors that Affect How Jade Changes Color
While wearing jade can cause it to turn green, there are several factors that can affect how the jade changes color. These include:
- Type of Jade: Different types of jade may change color more or less than others. For example, jadeite is more likely to change color than nephrite.
- Color of Jade: The original color of the jade can also affect how it changes color when worn. For example, if the jade is already green, it may not change color as dramatically as a piece of white jade.
- Skin Temperature: The temperature of your skin can affect how the jade changes color. If your skin is warmer, the jade may change color more quickly and dramatically.
- Sunlight Exposure: Exposure to sunlight can also affect how jade changes color. If you wear jade in direct sunlight, it may change color more quickly and intensely than if you wear it indoors.
How to Care for Jade
Jade is a durable and tough mineral, but it still requires care to ensure that it remains beautiful and vibrant. Here are some tips for caring for jade:
-
Avoid Exposure to Heat
Exposure to heat can cause the jade to become brittle and crack. Avoid wearing jade in hot environments or exposing it to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
-
Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products, can damage the surface of the jade and cause it to lose its luster. Avoid wearing jade when using these products, and store it in a safe place away from chemicals.
-
Clean Gently
To clean jade, use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface of the jade.
-
Store Carefully
When not wearing jade, store it in a safe place away from other jewelry or items that may scratch or damage the surface of the jade.
-
Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes
Rapid changes in temperature can cause jade to crack or become damaged. Avoid exposing jade to extreme temperature changes, such as placing it in the freezer or exposing it to hot water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, jade is a beautiful and durable mineral that is prized for its beauty and symbolism. While jade comes in a range of colors, green is the most common and well-known color of jade. Interestingly, jade can change color when it is worn, often turning green. This is due to the presence of chromium and iron within the mineral, which become more active when exposed to heat or sunlight. While wearing jade can cause it to change color, there are several factors that can affect how it changes, including the type and color of jade, skin temperature, and exposure to sunlight. To care for jade, avoid exposure to heat and chemicals, clean gently, and store carefully. By following these tips, you can keep your jade jewelry looking beautiful and vibrant for years to come.
