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What Is Jadeite?
Jadeite is one of the two minerals known as “jade” (the other being nephrite). Among them, jadeite is rarer, harder, and more prized—especially in East Asian culture.
For centuries, jadeite has symbolized:
- Protection and harmony
- Prosperity and virtue
- Longevity and spiritual balance
In Chinese tradition, jade is not just a gemstone—it is a moral and cultural symbol.
The History of Jadeite
While nephrite jade was used in China for thousands of years, jadeite entered Chinese culture more prominently during the Qing Dynasty, when high-quality jadeite from Myanmar became available.
From imperial court jewelry to modern fine design, jadeite has evolved from ritual object to luxury art.
What Does “A-Type Jadeite” Mean?
🧬 Jadeite Classification (A / B / C)
| Type | Treatment | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A-Type (天然A货) | None | Natural, untreated jadeite |
| B-Type | Acid-washed + polymer injected | Improved transparency but unstable |
| C-Type | Dyed | Artificial color |
| B+C-Type | Both treated |
Lowest value |
Why A-Type Matters
A-Type jadeite is the gold standard because:
- It retains natural structure
- It ages beautifully
- It holds cultural and investment value
In fine jewelry, only A-Type jadeite is considered truly collectible.
The Core of Jadeite Evaluation: 种 · 水 · 色
In Chinese gemology, jadeite is judged by three key dimensions:
1️⃣ 种 (Structure / Texture)
“种” refers to the internal crystal structure and fineness.
- Glassy (玻璃种) – highest quality, translucent and fine-grained
- Icy (冰种) – clear and elegant
- Glutinous (糯种) – soft and cloudy
- Bean (豆种) – coarse texture
- ✨ The finer the grain, the higher the value.
2️⃣ 水 (Transparency / Luster)
“水” describes how light travels through jadeite.
- High water → luminous, fluid, glowing appearance
- Low water → opaque, dull look
💡 High “水” often makes jadeite feel alive.
3️⃣ 色 (Color)
Color is the most emotionally impactful factor.
Popular jadeite colors:
- Imperial green (帝王绿) – rarest and most valuable
- Apple green
- Lavender purple
- Ice white
- Yellow jade
- Ink jade
✨ In jadeite, color should be:
- Pure (no muddy tones)
- Evenly distributed
- Harmonious with transparency
Color vs Type: Which Matters More?
A simplified hierarchy:
- 💎 Top-tier: High 种 + high 水 + beautiful 色
- 💎 Mid-tier: Good 种 + moderate 色
- 💎 Entry-level: Strong 色 but weaker 种
In other words: Color attracts the eye, but type determines value.
This is why some pale jadeite can be more expensive than vivid green pieces.
Why Jadeite Is Timeless
Unlike many gemstones, jadeite is not about sparkle—it’s about depth.
It reflects:
- Personal identity
- Cultural heritage
- Quiet luxury
At Stylles, we curate jadeite pieces that balance tradition with modern design—so jadeite can be worn not only as heritage, but as everyday elegance.
