Jadeite and Nephrite jade
Jadeite and Nephrite Jade
Since the beginning of time, Jade has been one of the most important stones in the Chinese culture. Jade is valued because of its beauty and utility. There are two types of Jade that commonly being known in society, which are Jadeite and Nephrite.
According to the color of Jade, there may be others name of Jade like, ice jade or lemon jade, but the particular differentiates are coming from those two types; Jadeite and Nephrite
Nephrite is mainly found in China. High quality nephrite is also known as “mutton fat” due to its uniform cream color and translucency. Nephrite is used in finely carved jade artwork and artifacts. Since this stone is higher in availability as compared to Jadeite, it is cheaper in price too. It has a strength o f 6.5 in Moh’s scale, which means it is more prone to chipping which is why the finish cannot be as fine as jadeite.
While, Jadeite is found in Burma. As far as the aspects like price, texture and even color are concerned; Jadeite finds more uses in jewelry than nephrite. This stone is more expensive out of the two varieties. Imperial Jade is the name given to the emerald green, translucent variety that is evenly colored. As far as its strength is concerned Jade is strong stone with a 7 on Moh’s scale and is quite resistant to breaking and chipping.
Jadeite, which is commonly known as Jade, can be further classified into different types on the basis of cutting, texture, clarity, translucency, color and tone.
However, there are translucent and opaque stones available, clearer the jade, higher the quality. Depending on these qualities, there are four types of Jade.
Type A Jade is also known as natural Jade. It is also called “True Color” Jade since it has a natural color. This Jade is polished and soaked in wax, which helps in enhancing its color and quality.
The translucency of Type B jade is improved by processes like chemical bleaching which helps in the removal of impurities. This kind of treatment may impact the chemical structure of Jade.
When jade is dyed to enhance its color, then it’s known as Type C jade. The color fades with time.
In case of type B+C jade, even though it is dyed, the color stays fast since it is also treated with a polymer.
Type A Jade is one of highest quality Jade that is naturally more expensive and precious. Emerald green and Imperial Jade belong to this variety.
Overall, Jade is symbolize luck and to offer protection in some of countries, and the most important thing from Jade is the beauty and elegant that it has. It is enough reason for adoring the precious and the valued of jade.