Jade Buying Guide

For over 7,000 years, jade has held an almost mystical power over human imagination. Ancient Chinese emperors believed jade connected them to heaven itself, while Mayan rulers considered it more precious than gold. Today, jade continues to command extraordinary prices, with the finest imperial green jadeite selling for millions of dollars per carat at auction houses worldwide.

Currently, the flood of treated stones, synthetic materials, and clever imitations has made authentication more challenging than ever before. While diamonds rely on the famous “Four Cs,” jade demands understanding of translucency levels, texture characteristics, color distribution patterns, and cultural significance factors that can dramatically impact value.

The complexity of jade evaluation stems from a fundamental truth that surprises most newcomers to the field: jade isn’t actually a single mineral. Instead, the term “jade” encompasses two completely different minerals with distinct characteristics, origins, and market values. Even experienced jewelry buyers often struggle to distinguish between these varieties and understand their respective worth. 

Throughout this guide, you will:

• Understand the fundamental differences between jadeite and nephrite jade, including why one variety consistently commands prices ten times higher than the other and how to distinguish them through visual examination and simple tests.
• Learn the sophisticated

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