Jadeite is one of two different stones called Jade. The other is called Nephrite. The distinction between the two was not identified until the 1800's. It typically comes in colors ranging from white through various shades of green, but can occasionally be found in pinks and purples as well when it has small amounts of other elements mixed in with it. It has often been used as a carving stone, and many beautiful sculptures have been produced with this material throughout various cultures and time periods, in particular, the Chinese. A particularly valuable variety is called Imperial Jade which has a lovely translucent rich green color. This variety can be very expensive.

Another group of cultures who used this stone was the early South Americans, particularly, the Mayans. Their source was in Central America. Other famous sources include Burma, and California.

I have not cut Jadeite before, so I can't comment on its character during cutting.