Brief Overview of Jadeite Jade
- Lam Lieu
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Jadeite jade holds a prestigious status in China, where it is revered as a gemstone that imparts a hidden virtue to its wearer, blending luxury with mystique. This belief underscores its significance as a cultural treasure beyond its aesthetic appeal.
The Spanish first encountered jadeite jade through the Aztecs of South America, who valued it for its exceptional hardness and toughness. Later, in the 18th century, jadeite was discovered in Burma (now Myanmar), quickly capturing the attention of Chinese emperors. They dubbed this newfound gem “Fei Cui,” a term inspired by the vibrant green feathers of the kingfisher bird. For years, jadeite jade and nephrite jade were thought to be the same due to their similar appearances. It wasn’t until 1863 that French mineralogist Damour identified “Fei Cui” as a distinct mineral, officially naming it jadeite and distinguishing it from nephrite.
Jadeite Colors: A Spectrum of Beauty and Value
Jadeite belongs to the pyroxene mineral group and is celebrated for its diverse color palette. Jadeite colors include green, lavender, white, orange, brown, and yellow, each offering unique charm. Among these, the most prized is the vivid emerald green, commonly known as “imperial jadeite,” recognized as the pinnacle of jadeite value. Following closely is lavender jadeite, the second most valuable hue, admired for its soothing and elegant tones. These jadeite colors not only enhance its visual appeal but also influence its market worth significantly.
Transparency: A Key Factor in Jadeite Value
Beyond color, transparency ranks as the second critical factor in determining jadeite value. Semi-transparent jadeite is exceedingly rare, making it highly sought after. When this transparency pairs with a rich green hue, the result is an exceptionally rare and valuable piece of jadeite jade. Similarly, semi-transparent colorless jadeite commands top-tier status among collectors and jewelers due to its scarcity and pristine beauty. Understanding transparency is essential for anyone exploring jadeite’s worth in the gemstone market.
Jadeite Sources: Where This Gem Originates
Jadeite is sourced from various regions, including Guatemala, California (U.S.), and the renowned “jade land” of Myanmar. Among these jadeite sources, Myanmar stands out as the producer of the finest quality jadeite, particularly the coveted imperial jadeite. This geographic origin plays a pivotal role in the gem’s reputation and market demand, making Myanmar a key player in the jadeite trade.
Treatments: Enhancing Jadeite Jade
Jadeite often undergoes treatments to improve its appearance. Common methods include bleaching to eliminate unwanted brown tones, followed by polymer impregnation to enhance durability and clarity. Artificial dyes and surface waxing are applied to lower-grade jadeite to boost its color and luster, appealing to broader markets. Additionally, heat treatments may be used to create striking orange and reddish shades, resulting in what is known as “B” jade. These jadeite treatments allow for a range of aesthetic enhancements, though they also affect the gem’s classification and value.
Why Jadeite Jade Matters
Jadeite jade is more than a stunning gemstone; it’s a symbol of luxury, history, and cultural heritage. From its discovery in Burma to its scientific identification in 1863, jadeite has captivated civilizations worldwide. Its array of colors—led by imperial green and lavender—combined with rare transparency, elevates its status in the gemstone market. Sourced primarily from Myanmar, and enhanced through various treatments, jadeite remains a top choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant hues or its enduring legacy, jadeite jade offers a timeless allure that resonates across cultures and generations.
Major Sources Guatemala, Myanmar, United States
Mineral Jadeite - a pyroxene Mohs Hardness 6.5 to 7 Toughness Exceptional Color Green, white, orange, yellow, lavender, black, brown Care and Cleaning Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are safe for untreated jade. But jade might be treated by dyeing, bleaching and impregnation, coatings or heat treatment, so warm, soapy water is always a safe choice. |
By Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
Photo by: Crown Jewellery Manufacturers, Ltd. Hong Kong.; Mason Kay Fine Jade Jewelry Inc.
