From the bustling markets of Hong Kong to the serene temples of Thailand, the stone known as 玉 (yù) in Chinese—a term that encompasses both jadeite and nephrite—is deeply entwined with the fortunes of the coming year. Found in shades of emerald, sage and celadon, jadeite is the rarer and harder of the two stones. Nephrite’s subtle palette encompasses white, grey and celadon hues. While less precious than jadeite, its toughness allows intricate carvings not possible with the more delicate mineral. Nephrite resonates with ancient Chinese spiritual traditions. From Confucius to Taoist sages, this stone signified virtue and wisdom. Across dynasties, nephrite adorned statues, vessels and ornaments.
As families gather to welcome in the Lunar New Year, many turn to jade as a protector and guide. It is customary for parents to give their children small jade pendants in the shape of animals from the Chinese zodiac, especially if the coming year corresponds with the child’s birth sign. These pendants are more than mere ornaments; they are amulets meant to safeguard the wearer and provide them with guidance and clarity.
This story is from the February 2024 edition of Tatler Hong Kong.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 2024 edition of Tatler Hong Kong.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE LAST WORD
Every issue, we ask our cover star a round of quickfire questions that give us a little more insight into their personalities. This month: Takashi Murakami
GOING WITH THE FLOW
How does one approach the ancient philosophy of feng shui in a modern way? Three leading Hong Kong-based designers share their thoughts on this revered art of placement and how to introduce its principles into our spaces
SCENE MAKER
Italian architect Antonio Citterio reflects on his enduring collaboration with Maxalto and how far the furniture brand has come since its early beginnings
MODERN FAMILY
Kourtney Kardashian's California sanctuary by famed designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, is where elegance meets comfort
A TO Z COSMETIC TREATMENTS
From Botox to glass skin facials, here are the most talked-about cosmetic treatments to know
CHANGING THE GAME
Our world is ever-changing, and so is the way we experience it. Tatler explores how the travel industry is adapting to the needs and values of a new generation
ACTS OF SERVICE
Go on, then. Ask Vea and Wing's chef-owner Vicky Cheng what his love language is
THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT
More women are taking back their birthing experience and their power by challenging the institutionalised norms surrounding childbirth, honouring the healing process and leaning on the magic of sisterhood
THE RIGHT INGRDIENTS
Oscar nominee Tran Anh Hung, who won Best Director at Cannes last year, evolves the language of cinema to present the simple beauty of Vietnam
THIRST TRAP
Marilyn Minter takes an exclusive self-portrait for Tatler and reminds the world why raw, honest, non-conforming beauty is the most compelling kind