Interesting Facts About Jadeite
Did you know jadeites are exceptionally rare that it was only distinguished from nephrite in 186301? Nephrites are common, however, jadeites are rare due to how it is formed. The most priced variety of jadeite is the Imperial Jade, which is a translucent emerald-green stone. Its price ranges over $25,000 per carat02. This makes it one of the world’s most expensive gems.
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Where Jadeite Comes From
Jadeite is considered as a geological rarity. It is formed exclusively in subduction zones where tectonic plates collide03. The formation of jadeites require a unique “high-pressure, low-temperature” environment found 20 to 40 miles beneath the Earth’s surface. It is composed of sodium aluminum silicate04. Through intense mountain-building events, it was uplifted to the surface over millions of years–thereby, the formation of jadeite.
The stone is known for its “water-like” translucency. Jadeite features an interlocking polycrystalline structure, which makes it one of the toughest gemstones. It is famous for its color that exudes vibrant “Imperial” emerald-green hue, which is caused by chromium. Other notable colors of jadeite are yellow, icy colorless, lavender, and even “black chicken” hues05. In terms of its luster, it is vitreous (glassy), which sets it apart from nephrite with its oily appearance06.
The primary source for gem-quality jadeite in the world is Myanmar, particularly the “Jade Tract” in the Kachin State. This location supplies over 95% of the market07. Jadeite is also existent in other locations such as California, Japan, Russia, and Guatemala which produce smaller, industrial-grade deposits.
How Jadeites are Processed
Jadeites are processed as a meticulous art of abrasion. This is because the stone’s interlocking crystal structure makes it tough for traditional chiseling. The initial process involves with the artisans’ “reading” of the rough stone. Diamond-tipped saws are used to slice the rough stones in order to reveal hidden color veins08.
Jadeites are rarely faceted compared to diamonds. This allows the gemstone to be shaped into smooth cabochons or bangles through the use of rotary tools and diamond-grit wheels. The manual polishing process takes place through multiple stages, often using bamboo or leather wheels and a traditional wax coating to protect its surface. This approach is utilized to ensure that no green material is wasted08.
Why It Is Expensive and How Rare It Is
Jadeite is expensive due to how rare it is. Its rarity stems from its unique geological requirements and severe supply constraints. Gem-quality jadeite is found almost exclusively in the Kachin State in Myanmar09. As it is formed only in high-pressure, low-temperature subduction zones, only less than 5% of mined material is appropriate for fine jewelry. Furthermore, there is a surging demand for jadeites since Asian middle class view “Imperial Jade” as a premier status symbol and “hard asset”10.
Famous Jewelry Made from Emerald Gemstones
Elite jadeite jewelry is characterized by vibrant translucency and historic provenance. Notable jewelry pieces include:
- The Hutton-Mdivani Necklace – It is a legendary Cartier piece featuring 27 graduated “Imperial Green” beads. Its price is sold for a record of $27.44 million11
- The Circle of Heaven Bangle – It is a solid, translucent jadeite ring. Its value is around $12 million12
- Imperial Jadeite Cabochon Rings – It is often set in platinum with diamonds adorned in order to highlight the gemstone’s glowing, watery texture13
Serendibite’s Market Value (Price per Carat)
The value of jadeites vary based on its quality. For commercial-grade stones, its price range from $50 to $500 per carat. For high-quality stones, the cost range from $1,000 to $5,000 per carat14. The most expensive jadeite, the elite Imperial Jade, has the starting price of $25,000 per carat. It can even exceed around $100,000 for gemstones with perfect translucency and vibrant saturation14.
