Jade

[Delayne <delayne@xxxxxxxxxx>]

I've recently been given several small chunks of
British Columbia jade. I've never carved anything with
this hardness before. I'd like to know what the
characteristics are, how to carve it, what tools to
use. And how did the art of jade carving start. What
were the tools of the ancient masters. I've seen Asian
jewelery and Native carvings out of this material, and
am curious as how to get a polish and shine on it, and
how can you tell good quality material?

Any help or info would be apreciated.