Jade jewelry is stunning, in various shades of green – though it is available in other colors, too. It has been a good luck stone for thousands of years. In the Chinese culture, it is called “yu” which means “royal gem.”
When shopping for jade jewelry, there are several things to understand. This will ensure that you choose a piece of jewelry that is truly magnificent without spending more than you need to.
Jade beads
Jade Variations
There are two different types of jade. You will need to know whether you are purchasing jadeite or nephrite mineral.
A lot of jade jewelry is the nephrite material because it is more affordable.
Jadeite has a wider range of colors. Nephrite is typically only green, white as well as yellow and red.
Jadeite is harder to find than nephrite. Due to the rarity of this gemstone, it is also more expensive.
Further, it’s important to get jadeite from a good jeweler. Many jewelry stores will try to pass nephrite off as jadeite to get the higher prices.
How to Choose Jade Jewelry
The jewelry that you find with jade can be a variety of colors. You will be able to find green, red, lavender, yellow, brown and even black. Green is the most popular color.
Make sure to find a stone that has very intense colors. The more expensive stones you will find in jewelry stores will have a very dark green hue.
Choose the higher quality jade stones based upon grade. There are three grades: A, B and C.
The type A jade is completely natural. It hasn’t gone through any artificial treatments to get the rich color that you see.
B and C grades are more affordable, but they have gone through a variety of chemical treatments.
Also, take the time to look for visible cracks and flaws. If you need to, ask the jeweler for a magnifying glass so you can take an in-depth look at what you’re about to buy.
Avoid Scams and Low-Quality Jade
When you buy jade jewelry, you have to avoid scams.
Stay away from the cracks and flaws.
Buy from a reputable dealer.
Don’t hesitate to ask for a certificate, either. This will ensure you’re not buying quartz that has been dyed to look like jade.
Choose the Right Setting for Your Jade
Jade is commonly set in yellow gold or sterling silver, depending upon the color. Jade can also be cut in a variety of shapes and colors.
Try on a few different pieces to see what size fits you best. You can find necklaces, earrings, rings and even bracelets.
When you have more than one stone within the jewelry that you buy, make sure that the color is as uniform as possible.
Remember that semi-transparent and translucent jade is going to be a higher value than the opaque pieces. Hold the stones up to the light as you buy them.
Highly polished and brightly colored jade stones can help to enhance any necklace or bracelet. When you want to add a beautiful piece of jewelry to your collection, look for the deeper, more intense colors.
