Jade guide
How to read jadeite
Jadeite rewards a slow look. Here is what collectors pay attention to — and what we stand behind.
Type A: natural, untreated
“Type A” jadeite has only been cut, carved and polished. Treated stones — bleached and polymer-filled (Type B) or dyed (Type C) — can look bright at first, but are worth far less and may change over time. Every piece we offer is Type A.
Colour
Green is the best known, from pale apple to an intense, even emerald. Lavender, yellow, red and black jadeite are prized too. Evenness and vividness matter as much as the hue itself.
Translucency
Chinese collectors speak of “water” — how deeply light travels into the stone. Icy jadeite is clear and glassy; denser stones are more opaque. Higher translucency gives jade its inner glow.
Texture
The fineness of the crystal structure. Finer texture means a smoother surface and a softer, oil-like lustre after polishing.
Carving
In colour-led carving, the design is drawn from the stone’s own colour zones. A good carving makes the most of each colour, and uses as little of the stone’s weakness as possible.
Certificates
Each piece comes with a gemmological certificate. You are welcome to have any piece re-tested at an independent laboratory of your choice.
Seeing it truly
Screens and photographs shift colour. Ask us for a video taken in daylight, a live video call, or come to see the piece in person.