Jadeite
Jadeite is a silicate containing sodium and aluminum. Jadeite occurs in a very wide range of colors, translucencies and textures.
In jewelry, jadeite is the more valuable of the two varieties of jade. Its value is simply a function of its beauty. The criteria used in judging the beauty of jadeite are:
1.Color and Tone
2.Texture
3.Translucency or Clarity
4.Desireable Shape or Balance
5.Size and Dimensions
6.Polish
7.Finish, which includes the matching or graduation in a strand of beads
One must also remember that currently the great majority of jadeite commercially available has undergone treatment to improve its color and translucency. Often the color may not be stable in treated jadeite or the actual structure of the jadeite has been compromised. It can be very difficult to discern treated jadeite from untreated stones. It is imperative that you buy jade from someone who understands the current treatments and has facilities available for thorough testing.
Art Deco Carved natural Jade, Enameled Necklace and Bracelet
Natural Burmese Jadeite Earrings.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF JADEITE
Jadeite was known and highly valued by the Olmecs, Mayas, Toltecs, Mixtecs, Zapotecs, and Aztecs. Carbon dating done on wood fragments found in Mexico in association with jadeite dates its use back to 1500 B.C. Jadeite from this locality was usually carved and used ceremonially. There were numerous jadeite artifacts found in tombs, including necklaces, pendants, bracelets, diadems, earrings, and statues. The Spanish conquistadors are solely responsible for destroying not only the art of jade carving in the Americas but also the sources for the jade.
In the mid 1700s, China first began to receive jadeite from Burma. It was called “new jade” and presented as a gift to the Emperor. Before that, all examples of Chinese jade were the mineral nephrite. The study of Chinese symbolism associated with nephrite and jadeite is a vast and esoteric topic.
THE METAPHYSICAL ASPECTS OF JADEITE
Jadeite is associated with Gemini, Aries and Libra, and is believed to strengthens the kidneys, heart and immune system. It balances emotions, increases fertility, dispels negativity, and fosters courage and wisdom. Green jade is famous for producing vivid and accurate dreams when placed under a pillow.
Jade is associated with the heart chakra.
Gemological Information for Jadeite
| Color: | White, Green, Yellow, Orange, Brown, Gray, Black, Lavender |
| Crystal Structure: | Monoclinic |
| Refractive Index: | 1.666 to 1.680 |
| Durability: | Excellent |
| Hardness: | 6.50 to 7.0 |
| Family: | Jade |
| Similar Stones: | Nephrite, Hydrogrossular, Serpentine, Maw-Sit-Sit, Idocrase, Chalcedony |
| Treatments: | Dyeing, Wax Impregnation, Heat Treatment |
| Country of Origin: | Myanmar |
Jadeite Care
| Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Not Safe |
| Steam Cleaning: | Safe |
| Warm Soapy Water: | Safe |
| Chemical Attack: | Can be Affected by Warm Acid |
| Light Sensitivity: | Stable (unless treated) |
| Heat Sensitivity: | Will Effect Enhancements and Can Fuse to Glass Under Torch Conditions |