When you first lay eyes on Xiuyu Jade, its soft glow and gentle green hues instantly draw you in. But beyond its beauty, this gemstone carries over 5,000 years of history and meaning. Known as one of China’s oldest and most treasured jades, Xiuyu is believed to bring peace, harmony, and protection to those who keep it close.
In this post, we’ll dive into the story of Xiuyu: where it comes from, why it’s so valued, how to recognize high-quality pieces, and why it’s worth adding to your collection.
1. The Origins of Xiuyu
Xiuyu (Serpentine Jade) comes from Xiuyan County in Liaoning Province, northeastern China. It is one of the earliest gemstones used by humans — dating back to the Neolithic period, around 7,000 years ago.
Fun fact:
One of the earliest jade artifacts ever discovered in China was a dragon-shaped pendant made of Xiuyu, found at the Hongshan Culture archaeological site.
🌿 A Piece of Sky
According to Chinese folklore, Xiuyu is said to be made from fragments of the sky. When the heavens cracked, the goddess Nüwa mended them with colorful stones, and the leftover pieces became Xiuyu buried in the mountains — carrying the spirit of the sky and earth.
2. What Makes Xiuyu Special?
While Xiuyu may not be as expensive as jadeite or imperial jade, it holds a unique place in Chinese culture.
For centuries, Xiuyu has been seen as:
✨ A charm for protection
✨ A symbol of peace and balance
✨ A natural way to ward off negative energy and bad luck
In ancient times, scholars, nobles, and even emperors wore Xiuyu jewelry or kept small carvings in their homes to bring harmony and positive energy.
3. What Does Xiuyu Look Like?
Xiuyu’s appearance is soothing and natural. Here's how you can recognize it:
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Color: Soft shades of green, from light to olive green, sometimes with creamy white or yellowish tones.
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Texture: Smooth and waxy, with a gentle "jade luster."
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Transparency: Usually semi-transparent to opaque.
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Patterns: Soft, cloud-like patterns and natural inclusions.
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Glow: When polished, it reflects a calming, oil-like shine.
Each piece of Xiuyu is unique — no two stones look exactly the same.
4. How Is Xiuyu Used?
Over thousands of years, Xiuyu has been crafted into:
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Jewelry: Bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings.
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Home Decor: Sculptures, micro-landscapes, bonsai-inspired pieces.
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Spiritual Charms: Protective pendants and lucky charms.
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Ancient Ritual Objects: Used in royal ceremonies and religious practices.
Today, Xiuyu is often used in modern jewelry design and decorative home accents — blending ancient beauty with contemporary style.
5. How to Tell If Xiuyu Is High Quality
This happens every day: A Los Angeles collector once paid $1,500 for a "rare, premium" Xiuyu bangle at a local gem fair. The stone was bright, with an intense green color, and the seller confidently claimed it was “old-mine, top grade”. However, after getting it appraised, he discovered the harsh truth — it was actually dyed serpentine jade, valued at less than $100. The overly bright color and high gloss finish were his first red flags, but without knowing what to look for, it was easy to be tricked.
So, how do you avoid making the same mistake? Shop with us or Here’s how to tell if your Xiuyu is high quality:
Understanding the Color Range
Unlike a single gemstone, Xiuyu refers to a variety of jade-like stones mostly found in Xiuyan County, Liaoning Province, and often serpentine jade. These stones come in a wide spectrum of colors, from soft, translucent greens to yellowish tones and sometimes even deep olive shades. The true beauty lies in the natural, even coloration and gentle variations within each stone.
Texture and Feel
Real Xiuyu feels warm to the touch, with a smooth, waxy texture that gives off a subtle natural luster. It shouldn't feel overly slick or cold, which is often a sign of synthetic treatments. High-quality pieces will have a smooth yet substantial weight, making them feel grounded and authentic.
Transparency and Clarity
While most Xiuyu is semi-translucent to opaque, high-quality pieces tend to exhibit a gentle glow when light passes through them. Look for stones that don’t feel too cloudy or completely opaque. The texture should be consistent, and any inclusions or natural veins should feel organic rather than forced.
Beware of Overly Glossy or Synthetic Stones
High-quality Xiuyu stones should not have an unnaturally high gloss. While polishing enhances its natural sheen, excessive shine could be an indication of artificial enhancement. Similarly, be wary of stones that feel unnaturally light or plastic-like, as they may not be genuine.
6. Why and where to Collect Xiuyu?
Adding Xiuyu to your collection is not just about owning a beautiful stone — it’s about holding a piece of history and culture.
Here’s why collectors and crystal lovers treasure Xiuyu:
🌿 It carries a deep cultural heritage.
🌿 It’s believed to offer protection and attract positive energy.
🌿 No two pieces are the same — each one is naturally unique.
🌿 Old-mine Xiuyu is becoming rarer and more valuable.
If you're looking to add Xiuyu Jade to your collection, look no further than our website. We offer a variety of beautifully handcrafted Xiuyu Jade pendants, including unique pet longevity locks and even a special Yin-Yang Xiuyu Jade set. The Yin-Yang set is a meaningful piece, with one half designed for your pet and the other for you, symbolizing the deep bond between you and your furry companion. This collection blends the protective power of Xiuyu Jade with the love and care you have for your pets, making it a perfect symbol of protection and harmony for both you and your beloved animal.
For many, keeping a piece of Xiuyu at home or wearing it daily is like carrying a little piece of peace and protection with them — a gentle reminder to slow down and stay grounded.
