Sec. IV, Ch. 18: Semi-Precious Stones, Jade

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	CHAPTER XVIII.

	JADE.

	RUE Jade is known to mineralogists as Nephrite or " kidney-stone," in consequence of its former use in diseases of that organ. It is a compact variety of hornblende, consisting of a silicate of magnesium and calcium. Much of the mineral known as Jade was separated from Nephrite, many years ago by M. Damour, and regarded as a distinct species under the name of Jadeite. This is a silicate of aluminium and sodium, and seems to be a form of acmite. The specific gravity of Jadeite is above 3, and may be as high as 3'3, while that of true Jade is generally below 3, and never exceeds 318. The Chinese have for ages worked this stone into most elaborate and delicate forms, and prized it as one of the choicest products of the mineral kingdom. Most of the Chinese Jade is obtained from the quarries of Upper Burma. Jade was also used by the Maories, or natives of New Zealand, chiefly for the grotesque breast ornament known as tiki,* and for the peculiar club called the mere, or pattoo-pattoo. This Jade, called in New Zealand punamu, or " green stone," is also now used for earrings, pendants, charms, and other ornamental objects. Jade is also found

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