Jadeite
The King of Jade and the Jewel of the Orient
📜 History and Stories
Although China has had a jade culture (mainly nephrite) for thousands of years, Jadeite (hard jade) was not introduced in large quantities until the Qing Dynasty and rapidly became popular, quickly surpassing nephrite as the "King of Jades" due to its vibrant green color and superior texture.
Jadeite was favored by the Qing Dynasty royal family, especially the Empress Dowager Cixi, whose obsession with jadeite drove its popularity in China. In Eastern culture, jadeite is not only a symbol of wealth, but also the embodiment of virtue, purity and longevity.
🌍 Major Origin Distribution
More than 90% of gem-quality jadeite comes from the same country, Myanmar, specifically the northern region of Hpakant. This single source makes the top grades extremely rare and valuable. Other small sources include Guatemala, Russia and Japan, but the quality is usually not comparable to Burmese Jadeite.
📍 Explore Core Properties: Pachang, Myanmar🔬 Gemological Properties
| characterization | descriptive |
|---|---|
| Mineral Types | Jadeite in the Jadeite family |
| Chemical composition | Sodium Aluminum Silicate `(NaAlSi₂O₆)` |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| index of refraction | Approx. 1.66 |
| Key Features | Excellent toughness, not easy to crack |
Jadeite (Hard Jade) vs.
💰 Different quality grades and values
The jadeite value assessment system is extremely complex, far beyond the traditional 4C standard, mainly around the "species, water, color, ground, work" to start, of which "species" (transparency) and "color" (color) is the most critical.
1. Transparency
It refers to the texture and transparency of jadeite. From the top grade of "glass seed" to "ice seed" and "glutinous seed", the more translucent the jadeite, the higher the value.
2. Color
The standard is "thick, sunny, correct and even". The top color is "Imperial Green", which is worth a fortune.
3. Clarity
Cracks, black spots and lint-like inclusions should be avoided.
4. Craftsmanship
The degree of mastery of the carving can greatly enhance the artistic value of jadeite.
The Value Ladder of Different "Seeds" and "Colors
The value of Jadeite is determined by both the "species" and the "color". The "glassy emerald green" is legendary, and even colorless glassy jadeite is worth much more than ordinary jadeite of poor texture and color.
💖 Symbolism
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Character and Status
In Chinese culture, "a gentleman is like jade". Jadeite symbolizes the virtues of benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, courage and purity.
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Luck and Warding Off Evil
It is believed to bring good luck, expel negative energies and protect the wearer.
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Legacy and Emotion
Jadeite bracelets and other jewelry are often passed down from one generation to the next as family heirlooms with deep emotions.
🛡️ Care and Wear
Jadeite has excellent toughness, but medium hardness. Avoid bumping against hard objects to prevent scratches or cracks.
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Avoiding collisions
Prevent scratching or impacting with hard objects.
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Stay away from chemicals
Avoid contact with acids, alkalis and cosmetics.
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Avoid high temperatures
High temperatures may damage its structure and luster.
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Regular cleaning
Clean with water and a soft cloth.
👑 celebrities and fashion
Jadeite is the first choice of Eastern celebrities for important occasions. International movie star Michelle Yeoh often wears the finest jadeite jewelry on the red carpet, perfectly demonstrating the elegance and aura of an Oriental woman. In addition, jadeite jewelry is often sold at auctions at record prices, making it a highly sought-after item by top collectors.