At Nanyang Jade, we deal exclusively in authentic, natural Type A quality jade. We do not trade in chemically treated, polymer-filled, or artificially dyed jade.
For anyone considering jade jewellery — whether for daily wear, gifting, or long-term appreciation — we strongly recommend purchasing only Natural Type A jade. This is the only category of jadeite that remains structurally stable, culturally respected, and suitable for long-term ownership.
Buying jade differs from buying gold or diamonds because jade derives its value from the whole material rather than a single metric. Instead of relying on weight or grading scales, buyers evaluate jade through colour, texture, translucency, and craftsmanship working together. As a result, understanding these fundamentals helps buyers avoid overpaying and prevents them from unknowingly choosing treated or imitation stones.
This jade buying guide helps first-time buyers and collectors understand how to choose authentic natural jade, avoid common mistakes, and make confident, informed decisions.
What Is Jade? Jadeite vs Nephrite
The word jade refers to two different minerals:
- Jadeite – rarer in nature and traditionally associated with high jewellery and imperial-quality jade
- Nephrite – equally natural jade, historically significant, and valued based on its material quality rather than rarity alone
Nephrite is not inherently inferior or “common” by default. Like jadeite, nephrite spans a wide quality spectrum. Fine nephrite with excellent texture, colour, and workmanship can be highly prized and culturally important.
In the trade, nephrite is also widely recognised as Hotian jade (和田玉), particularly in Chinese and regional markets. High-quality Hotian jade has a long historical legacy and is valued for its dense texture, smooth lustre, and refined craftsmanship.
In Southeast Asia and Greater China, modern fine jewellery discussions often focus more on jadeite, but the same core evaluation principles apply to both jadeite and nephrite.
This guide focuses primarily on natural jadeite, especially Natural Type A jade, because treatment classifications (Type A, B, C) apply specifically to jadeite. However, the concepts of colour, texture, translucency, and craftsmanship discussed throughout also apply when evaluating high-quality nephrite.
What Is Natural Type A Jade?
Natural Type A jadeite is jade that has:
- Not been chemically bleached
- Not been polymer‑filled
- Not been artificially dyed
It may be cut, carved, and polished, but its internal structure remains natural. This is the most stable and collectible form of jadeite, and the only type that retains long‑term value.
Type B and Type C jade may look attractive initially, but treatments can weaken the stone and cause colour or clarity to deteriorate over time.
If long‑term value and authenticity matter, always prioritise Natural Type A jade.
The 5 Core Factors That Determine Jade Value
Unlike diamonds, jade does not follow a single grading system. Instead, experienced traders and collectors assess jade holistically. For this reason, quality always depends on how multiple factors work together, not on one feature alone.
The five most important factors include:
1. Colour
Colour often creates the first impression. However, experienced buyers look beyond brightness alone.
High-quality jadeite colour should appear natural and vibrant. Moreover, it should distribute evenly rather than appear patchy or dull. Under different lighting conditions, fine jade continues to look lively instead of flat.
Although green remains the most recognised colour, lavender, icy white, yellow, red and black jadeite can also carry strong value when overall quality is high.
2. Translucency
Translucency describes how light passes through jade.
Generally, higher translucency indicates a finer crystal structure. As light moves through the stone, it creates a soft internal glow that experienced buyers associate with quality.
While opaque jade can still be attractive, translucent jadeite tends to attract stronger long-term demand.
3. Texture (Grain Structure)
Texture refers to how fine and compact the jade crystals appear.
When jade has a fine texture, it feels smooth and silky to the touch. In contrast, coarse texture often looks grainy or uneven. Because texture affects durability, fine-grained jade usually performs better over long-term wear.
4. Clarity and Natural Characteristics
Unlike diamonds, jade does not need to look flawless.
Natural inclusions, cotton-like patterns, and subtle colour variations occur commonly in genuine jade. However, buyers should consider whether these features disrupt the overall appearance or weaken the structure.
If a piece appears unnaturally perfect, buyers should examine it more closely.
5. Craftsmanship and Proportion
Craftsmanship plays a critical role in final value.
Skilled artisans design carvings that respect the stone’s natural shape. At the same time, good settings enhance colour and translucency without overwhelming the jade itself. In pendants and bangles, balanced proportion often separates refined pieces from average ones.
Common Jade Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Many buyers unknowingly make the same mistakes when purchasing jade:
- Focusing only on colour and ignoring texture or translucency
- Assuming bigger jade pieces are always more valuable
- Buying treated jade without understanding the difference
- Believing jade is priced by carat like diamonds
Jade is valued as a whole piece, not by weight alone. Quality always outweighs size.
Should Jade Come with Certification?
Reputable jadeite jewellery should be accompanied by an independent laboratory report when possible.
A proper report should state:
- The material is jadeite
- Whether it is natural or treated
- Any detected enhancements
Certification adds transparency and confidence, especially for higher‑value pieces.
How to Choose Jade for Daily Wear vs Collection
For Daily Wear
- Prioritise durability and comfort
- Choose smooth finishes and secure settings
- Avoid overly thin or fragile designs
For Collection or Gifting
- Focus on overall quality rather than size
- Consider symbolism, carving meaning, and colour rarity
- Natural Type A jade is strongly preferred
Why Buy Jade from a Specialist Rather Than a General Jeweller
Jade is a niche gemstone with its own valuation language. A jade specialist is more likely to:
- Understand subtle quality differences
- Provide accurate explanations without exaggeration
- Source natural jadeite responsibly
Buying jade is as much about trust as it is about beauty.
Final Thoughts: Buying Jade with Long‑Term Confidence
A well‑chosen jadeite piece can be worn for decades and passed down across generations. The key is not chasing perfection, but understanding quality, authenticity, and balance.
When you buy jade with knowledge, patience, and transparency, you are not just purchasing jewellery — you are investing in a material with cultural depth and lasting meaning.
If you are new to jade, start with pieces that feel right to you, learn to observe with your eyes and hands, and always prioritise natural jadeite over short‑term visual appeal.
This jade buying guide is written to support long‑term understanding and informed decision‑making. Content is designed to be educational, search‑friendly, and aligned with how real jade is valued in practice.