Jade is a generic term describing two similar minerals: "jadeite" and "nephrite." Of the two, jadeite is the preferred gemstone; for it is harder and denser than nephrite and has a wide range of bright and beautiful colors. Jadeite is found in Burma , Russia , Guatemala , Switzerland , Japan , and California ; nephrite is found in Canada , New Zealand , China , Taiwan , Central Asia and Alaska . Jade plays an important role in the cultural history of Mesoamerica . Archeological research has proven that the Maya used jade in the late Pre -Classic period (400 B.C. to 100 B.C.) and the Early Classic Period (250 to 450 B.C.) Jade was not merely a decorative stone; it indicated the social class of the bearer. Religious meanings and medicinal properties were also attributed to the stone. In the Maya culture, green jade represented fertilized corn, quetzal feathers, wealth and above all power. It was the highest symbol of wealth; and for this reason, it was traded among distant Maya cities. During the Spanish conquest, jade quarries were abandoned and disappeared in the jungle. Quarries were rediscovered in the early 1950's by Mr. William Foshag and Mr. Robert Leslie. The modern day jade industry started in Antigua in 1974, and it has since been growing to become an important part of Antiguan commerce. In Antigua Guatemala , there are several workshops devoted to manufacturing jade jewelry. Many manufacture jewelry on a mass production basis, but there are also artisans who make distinctive, one of a kind pieces. If you are interested in the jade jewelry manufacturing process, we recommend that you visit the main manufacturers and jewelry stores. Not only will you be able to see finished jewelry, you will also be offered a tour of the factory. You will be able to appreciate the manufacturing process as you witness the raw stone being transformed into a beautiful jewel.

Suggested manufacturers and jewelry stores that offer a tour inside their facilities:

Jades S.A.

Location: 4ª Calle Oriente No. 34, Ciudad de Antigua

Schedule: Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

La Casa del Jade

Location: 4ª Calle Oriente No. 10, Ciudad de Antigua

Schedule: Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A place you cannot miss so you know a little more about the Mesoamerican cultures that used the jade:

  Museo Mesoamericano del Jade

Location: 4ª Calle Oriente No. 10. El Jaulón