This antique piece of creamy jade is carved in a cut out design in the shape of a Chinese lock. The design in the center is different on the front and the back. On the front are Chinese characters on the back is a floral design. The lock is 3” across by 2” tall,. I have beaded it with clear smoky quartz nuggets that are 20 mm by 15 mm. They are interspersed with smaller round smoky quartz beads. The smokey quartz are a clear brownish gray which complement the creaminess of the Jade. The necklace is 21” around and is finished with an large 18 K gold vermeil clasp. This is a dramatic necklace as well as a collectors item.

Chinese royalty has worn jade for centuries. It has been used since the Neolithic times for tools, weaponry, amulets, vases and figurines because of its hardness. It is believed to be a spiritual stone and has been called the jewel of heaven. It represents the five principal virtues: charity, modesty, courage, justice and wisdom. From cloudy white to golden brown, light to dark green, to rare lavender, jade is the most highly prized Asian gemstone. Jade has been regarded as the most precious stone for thousands of years. It is believed to protect the wearer and ensure good luck and good health as well as to increase life span.

Smokey Quartz is translucent brownish gray. It is believed to be a protective stone and has been used since antiquity in jewelry.