Definition of jade

The word "jade" has its roots in the Spanish language. In Spanish, the word for jade is "piedra de ijada," meaning "stone of the loins." The term "ijada" referred to a painful ailment in the lower back in traditional Spanish medicine. According to one theory, the association between jade and the "stone of the loins" name came from theuese who conquered Mexico in the 16th century. They observed that the Aztecs and Mayans carved jade into the shape of human kidneys and other internal organs, apparently to help heal ailments causing pain in the lower back and groin area. In time, the term "iejada" was shortened to "ijola," then "ija," which brought the pronunciation closer to what we say today as "jade." The term was then adopted into English and other European languages during the colonial period. Jade continued to be highly valued in Asian and South American cultures for its beauty and supposed healing properties. Precious jade is still considered a symbol of wealth, honor, and wisdom in many parts of the world, while common jade is still used as a gemstone in jewelry.