WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING A JADE PURCHASE

Avid jadeite collectors understand what makes the stone valuable when hunting down authentic items. But, if you are just starting out, it can be difficult to determine if the item is worth the price. Because the gemstone is so unique, there are a variety of factors that must be considered when deciding whether or not to buy the jade item, whether it be bangles, figurines, rings, earrings or pendants. Although jade is the most respected gemstone in Chinese culture, many merchants don’t treat it that way. Purchasing a jade item that lacks in quality can be avoided by questioning some aspects about the stone.

Is it made out of Nephrite or Jadeite?

Although both materials are considered to be jade, they each differentiate slightly. Nephrite is the traditional material of jade stone, while jadeite is the material that was imported and used later on in history. Both stones are referred to as jade and vary in color, mineralogical properties, appearance and pallet ranges. If the jade item appears to be anything other than nephrite or jadeite, then it is not real jade.

What Time Period is the Jade Item From?

Jade items carved and created from artisans in an earlier decade carry a higher value. However, some dealers will attempt to claim that their products are from an era of the past, when in reality they were made much more recently. Many times, a famous carving will also be copied multiple times to be sold as an imposter.

How Does the Quality of the Carving Look?

The carved features of the jade stone should be nothing short of exquisite, with a smooth, finished surface. Some items in today’s market are carved by machinery, but hand-carved items are the most treasured.

Has it Ever Been Repaired?

If the jade item appears to have been repaired, make sure it was done properly and that it isn’t disfigured. By conducting this evaluation, you can also determine if the item is worth its value.

What Color is the Jade?

The color of the jade stone in the design of the piece has a large impact on the value of the item. Natural green jade is much more common and easier to find, while lavender and red jade is scarcer. The more colorful the stone, the more valuable the item will be. Additionally, you should also check that the jade isn’t artificially dyed to give a different color.

Don’t purchase your jade item from just any merchant; only trust reliable sellers who won’t try to offer fake jade that is overpriced. We have been hand-selecting our jade items for years, traveling overseas to personally pick them out and import them to the U.S ourselves. As jade collectors, we understand the challenge of purchasing fine quality jade jewelry, accessories and items. Honing the technique of questioning, evaluating and examining the authenticity of a jade item can ensure that the investment you are about to make is worth it.