Yellow Jade: Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Jadeite - Why It's Underrated

Yellow Jade, a captivating variety of jadeite, carries a rich history intertwined with Chinese royalty. Despite its regal associations, it remains a rare find in jewelry markets. This article delves into the unique characteristics of Yellow Jade, exploring its meaning, origins, and why it hasn't achieved the same acclaim as its green counterpart.

Why is yellow jade not evaluated on par with the green jade?

The Symbolic Significance of Yellow Jade

Across cultures, jade is revered as a symbol of good fortune. In traditional Chinese culture, jade carvings, including those in Yellow Jade, often hold specific meanings. Fish-shaped pendants, for instance, represent wealth, strength, and courage. The color yellow, historically reserved for emperors, reinforces Yellow Jade's association with power and prestige.

High quality yellow jadeite is really hard to find, and finding the true "royal gold" is almost impossible.

Why Isn't Yellow Jade Called "Imperial Jade"?

While many assume green jadeite was the most prized in ancient China, white nephrite jade held that honor. The surge in popularity of green jadeite occurred in the 1700s, following its importation from Myanmar. Emperor Qianlong, a renowned jade enthusiast, was captivated by its vibrant green hues.

Experts suggest that if high-quality, translucent Yellow Jade had been readily available, it might have earned the "Imperial Jade" title. However, its scarcity has maintained its status as an underrated gem.

Because excellent quality yellow jade is extremely rare, it is difficult to be commercial, making green jadeite keep the leading position.

The Origin of Yellow Jade's Distinctive Color?

The yellow, brown, beige, orange, and red hues in Yellow Jade are typically found in the rind of the stone. According to "Jade: A Gemologist’s Guide" by Lotus Gemology, these colors result from environmental oxidation and iron oxide staining. The core of a jade boulder usually displays white, green, or lavender shades.

Yellow Jade and "Fei Cui": A Gemological Perspective

In gemological terms, "Fei Cui" refers to jadeite jade, regardless of color. The Hong Kong Jade and Stone Laboratory defines Fei Cui as a polycrystalline aggregate of jadeite, omphacite, and/or kosmochlor. Therefore, Yellow Jade is classified as Fei Cui.

Yellow jadeite jade still belongs to the original fei cui group.

Durability and Care of Yellow Jade

Both jadeite and nephrite jade are known for their exceptional durability. However, the translucency and crystal structure influence their toughness. High-quality jadeite with finer, more compact crystals is generally more durable.

While Yellow Jade is robust, it can still break under significant impact. Handle it with care, avoiding drops on hard surfaces.

High-quality jadeite with finer, more compact crystals is generally more durable.

Is Yellow Jade Subject to Treatments?

Yellow jadeite jade is rarely treated with impregnation or dye due to its lower market value compared to green jadeite. However, beware of dyed yellow quartz sold as Yellow Jade. Purchase from reputable dealers for authenticity.

Heat treatment of Yellow Jade is uncommon and difficult to detect. If performed, the color remains stable.

Yellow Jade, with its rich history and unique coloration, remains an underrated gem in the world of jadeite. Its association with royalty and its natural beauty make it a valuable and intriguing gemstone.

Lucky Qi edited