Canadian Jade Sterling Silver Celtic Pendant

Jade was first identified in Canada by Chinese settlers in 1886 in British Columbia, but was considered worthless at the time, as they were actually searching for gold!  The mining business Loex James Ltd., started by two Californians, began the first commercial mining of Canadian Jade in 1972.

Jade is one of the oldest and most important gemstones, with a history dating over 7,000 years (it was historically used to make tools, weapons and ornaments). The term 'jade' was derived from 'Piedra de Ijada', a Spanish phrase meaning 'stone for the pain in the side’, because Spanish explorers saw natives of Central America holding pieces of jade to their sides, believing that it could cure illness. 

Dark apple green in colour, with some translucency in the light, Canadian jade jewellery can be used as a talisman or worn as an amulet, which protects from destructive forces by acting as a shield.

Why do silversmiths use 925%? Measured in parts per thousand, pure silver (999%) is too soft so silversmiths mix it with other metals to make it it harder. The purer the metal, the higher the polish, but it is a lot softer (thus less durable). The harder the metal is, the more hard wearing the jewellery is, but it will also tarnish easier as it has less silver content. Therefore, the silver industry set a standard percentage content for fine silver (925); what we know as "sterling silver". At Two Skies our silversmiths use 925 (sterling) silver for ring shafts and moving parts, and a very high 950% on our stones settings, which enables us to get a strong jewellery item with a beautiful and secure stone setting, without any gluing. Each piece of our jewellery is hand stamped with our Two Skies Hallmark alongside the recognised industry 925 Hallmark.

Relax - you can shop with confidence at Two Skies.  If you change your mind, simply get in touch to let us know you want to return one or all of your items within 7 days of receiving your order, and we'll get a replacement/refund arranged - no quibbles!

Read our full refunds policy here