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Jade, the stone of heaven. Whether you're shopping for a lucky jade bracelet, an elegant necklace, or a simple ring to match your vibes, there's something magical about this gemstone.
But here’s the catch: not all jade is real.
Yup, the market is flooded with fakes, and if you're not careful, you could end up with a shiny piece of plastic instead of the real deal.
Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of mishaps while shopping for jade. I’ve been duped, overpaid, and, let’s just say, educated the hard way.
But now, I can spot a fake jade piece faster than I can find a sale on jewelry (and trust me, that’s quick).
So, let me share everything I’ve learned about how to tell if jade is real—and help you avoid the mistakes I made.
What Is Jade? The Basics Before You Buy
Before we dive into spotting fakes, let’s get clear on what jade actually is. Jade comes in two types: jadeite and nephrite.
Both are tough, beautiful stones, but jadeite is the rarer, more valuable one.
Think of jadeite as the Beyoncé of the jade world—glamorous, expensive, and always in demand.
Nephrite, while still stunning, is the more accessible cousin.
Key Differences Between Jadeite and Nephrite
- Color: Jadeite is known for its vibrant hues, like deep green, lavender, and even red. Nephrite has a softer, more subdued palette.
- Price: If you’re paying top dollar, you’re likely looking at jadeite. Nephrite is generally more affordable.
- Density: Jadeite is harder and denser than nephrite, which makes it feel heavier for its size.
Red Flags: Common Types of Fake Jade
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Fake jade can come in many forms, but the most common ones are dyed stones, treated jade, and outright imposters like glass or plastic.
1. Dyed Jade
Dyed jade might look stunning at first glance, but its overly vibrant colors scream “fake.” Real jade has natural variations, whereas dyed jade often looks too perfect.
2. Treated Jade (B-Jade and C-Jade)
Jade that’s been chemically bleached and polymer-treated is called B-jade. It’s real jade, but it’s been altered to look better.
Then there’s C-jade, which is dyed AND treated—a double whammy of fakery.
3. Glass and Plastic Fakes
These are the easiest to spot once you know what to look for, but they’re also the most common.
Cheap glass or plastic can be made to resemble jade, but they lack the weight and texture of the real thing.
Tests to Identify Real Jade
1. The Weight Test: Heft It Up
Real jade is dense and heavier than it looks. Pick up the piece and feel its weight. If it feels too light, it’s probably not jade.
2. The Temperature Test: Feel the Chill
Jade stays cool to the touch, even in warm environments. Hold the stone in your hand. If it warms up quickly, it might be a fake.
3. The Scratch Test: Hardness Matters
Jade is a tough stone, ranking 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Lightly scratch the surface with something sharp (like a steel knife). If it scratches easily, it’s fake. Be gentle though—you don’t want to damage real jade either!
4. The Sound Test: Listen Carefully
Gently tap the jade piece with another jade object or a metal instrument. Real jade produces a clear, ringing sound, while fake jade often sounds dull.
5. The Light Test: Transparency Check
Hold the jade up to the light. Real jade is slightly translucent and allows some light to pass through, especially at the edges. Plastic and glass fakes often look opaque or overly transparent.
Trust But Verify: The Role of Certificates
If you’re buying expensive jade, always ask for a certificate of authenticity.
Reputable sellers provide these documents, which indicate the type of jade, its treatment (if any), and its value.
Where to Buy Authentic Jade
Shopping for jade online can be tricky, but there are reliable stores that specialize in genuine jade jewelry.
When in doubt, look for stores with strong reviews, clear product descriptions, and a solid return policy.
And, yes, our shop checks all those boxes. 😉
FAQs About Jade
1. Can fake jade still be valuable?
Some treated jade pieces can hold value, especially if the treatment is disclosed. But outright fakes like plastic or glass? Not at all.
2. How can I avoid getting scammed?
Stick to reputable sellers, ask for certificates, and always perform basic tests like weight and temperature checks.
3. Is it worth investing in jade?
Absolutely! Genuine jade holds its value and often becomes a cherished family heirloom.
