Jade: Meaning, Colours, Properties & Jewellery Guide

Understanding Hardness and Toughness

When evaluating gemstones, it is important to understand the difference between hardness and toughness. Hardness refers to a material's resistance to scratching, measured on the Mohs scale. Toughness, on the other hand, describes a gemstone's resistance to breaking, chipping or cracking.

Jade is not as hard as sapphire or diamond on the Mohs scale, but its interlocking internal crystal structure can make it extremely resistant to breaking. This exceptional toughness is one of jade's most distinctive and valued properties, making it particularly suitable for jewellery that may experience everyday wear.

Jadeite vs Nephrite

Jadeite and nephrite are both genuine jade, but they differ in their mineral composition and certain physical characteristics.

It is important to note that neither type is automatically superior in every situation. Both jadeite and nephrite are genuine jade, and the choice between them often comes down to personal preference, colour, transparency and the specific qualities of an individual piece.

Jade Colour and Appearance

Although green is the colour most strongly associated with jade, genuine jade occurs naturally in many colours. The range includes white, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, grey and black, in addition to various shades of green.

Imperial Jade

Highly saturated green jadeite is sometimes known in the trade as "Imperial Jade". This term is a quality or trade description rather than a separate mineral species. Imperial Jade typically refers to jadeite with an intense, vivid green colour and good transparency, and it is among the most sought-after forms of jade.

What Causes Jade Colours?

The colour of jade is influenced by trace elements and mineral chemistry. In jadeite, chromium can produce vivid green hues, whilst iron may contribute to yellows, browns and blacks. In nephrite, iron is the primary colouring agent, producing the characteristic green and grey-green tones. The specific combination and concentration of these trace elements determine the final colour of each piece.

Jade Durability and Suitability for Jewellery

Jade's exceptional toughness makes it suitable for a wide range of jewellery applications, including:

• Rings
• Earrings
• Necklaces
• Pendants
• Bracelets
• Bangles
• Beads
• Carved jewellery

However, it is important to remember that jade can still become scratched, chipped or damaged. Whilst its toughness is exceptional, jade should not be treated as indestructible. Proper care and handling will help preserve its beauty and integrity over time.

Where Jade Is Found

Jade is sourced from various locations around the world. Recognised jadeite sources include Myanmar and Guatemala, whilst important nephrite sources include China, Canada, New Zealand, Russia and other regions.

Assessing Jade Quality

When evaluating jade, customers may consider several factors, including:

• Colour: The hue, saturation and tone of the jade
• Transparency: Particularly important when assessing fine jadeite
• Texture: The fineness and uniformity of the internal structure
• Evenness of colour: Consistency of colour throughout the piece
• Cut and carving: The skill and artistry of the fashioning
• Polish: The quality of the surface finish
• Treatments: Whether the jade has been treated to enhance its appearance
• Overall appearance: The combined visual impact of all these factors

Transparency is particularly important when assessing fine jadeite. The most highly valued jadeite often combines vivid colour with good transparency, creating a luminous, glowing appearance.

Natural and Treated Jade

Jade may be treated to improve its colour, transparency or appearance. The jade trade commonly uses specific terminology to describe treatment levels:

Type A Jadeite

Traditionally used for natural jadeite that has not undergone significant treatment beyond processes such as waxing, which is considered a standard finishing technique.

Type B Jadeite

Material that has been chemically bleached and impregnated with polymer or resin to improve transparency and appearance.

Type C Jadeite

Material that has been artificially dyed to enhance or alter its colour.

Type B+C Jadeite

Jadeite receiving both impregnation and colour treatment.

Imitation Jade

Imitation jade also exists and can include glass, serpentine, dyed quartz and other materials. These imitations are not genuine jade and have different physical and chemical properties. Professional testing may be required to distinguish genuine jade from imitations

Caring for Jade Jewellery

Proper care will help maintain the beauty and integrity of jade jewellery. We recommend cleaning jade with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth or soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean, soft cloth.

What to Avoid

• Harsh chemicals
• Abrasive cleaners
• Strong acids
• Hard impacts
• Extreme heat
• Prolonged exposure to chemicals

We recommend storing jade separately from harder gemstones that could scratch its polished surface. A soft pouch or lined jewellery box is ideal for protecting jade pieces when not being worn.