Jade is a feminine given name in English and French, derived from the name of the precious stone. The stone's name itself comes from the Spanish phrase piedra de la ijada, meaning "stone of the flank," based on the ancient belief that jade could cure kidney ailments (renal colic). As a given name, it came into general use during the 1970s, initially as a unisex choice but now predominantly female.Gemstone BackgroundThe term "jade" actually refers to two different mineral aggregates—nephrite and jadeite—which have been prized for millennia. Nephrite is typically green but can also be yellow, white, or black, while jadeite ranges from white to deep green (including the coveted "imperial" green), lavender, yellow, orange, brown, and black. Both have been used extensively in carvings, jewelry, and ornamental work, especially in Chinese, Mesoamerican, and Maasai cultures.Variants and Related FormsCommon English variants include Jada, Jaida, Jayda, and Jayde. The Italian equivalent is Giada. Many of these forms have become independently popular in various English-speaking countries.Notable BearersNotable individuals with this name include the American actress and model Jade Goody (1981–2009), known for her participation in reality TV. Others include Jade Raymond (born 1975), a Canadian video game executive, and Jade Jagger (born 1971), a British jewelry designer and socialite.Meaning: From the precious stone jade (derived from Spanish for "stone of the flank")Origin: Name derived from the gemstone, ultimately from Spanish ijadaType: First name (primarily feminine since the 1970s)Usage Regions: English-speaking countries (US, UK, Australia) and France