Jadeite and jade

Jadeite is actually two separate gems: jade and jadeite. In China, a pierced jade disk is a symbol of heaven.

They are minerals belonging to silicates. They are usually massive, form fibrous aggregates or are granular to solid. Jadeite is a monoclinic pyroxene and jade is a variety of amphibole (actinolite). In jewelry stores, they do not distinguish them from each other and are sold under the common name JADE. This practice is harmful because it is two separate minerals, of which jadeite has a much higher jewelry value than jade. Their predominantly green color also contributes to the difficulties in distinguishing them. The color of jadeite can change to lavender, pink, brown, red and in its pure form it can also be milky white. Jade does not match the purity, transparency and overall quality of jadeite. The characteristic color of jade corresponds to green spinach. Compared to jadeite, it is usually darker, sometimes almost black. Both the Chinese and the Aztecs considered jadeite as a cult stone to be the most beautiful of all gemstones. In contrast, jade is only a decorative stone. Synthesis of jadeite and jade is out of the question, but imitations are applied to the greatest extent of all precious stones, especially in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. They are called a special term – simulants. The most common simulant is a common rock of dark green color – serpentinite, which is offered to the client instead of jade. Other counterfeits of jadeite lead to artificial treatment by dyeing and impregnation with waxes and artificial resins of the desired color. Such an adjustment should always be declared. Otherwise, it is a scam.