Aulyn

Jade has captivated people across generations with its timeless beauty and deep cultural significance. Prized for centuries in Eastern traditions, jade represents harmony, protection, prosperity, and longevity. Yet, with its popularity and value comes the challenge of distinguishing authentic jade from numerous imitations flooding the market. For first-time buyers, understanding how to identify real jade ensures that you're investing in a genuine, meaningful gemstone. At Aulyn, we uphold a strict commitment to authenticity, sourcing only certified jadeite for all our jewelry pieces.

The Two Types of Jade

Jadeite vs. Nephrite: What's the Difference?

The term "jade" actually encompasses two distinct minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is rarer, harder, and typically more vibrant in color, which makes it more valuable for fine jewelry. Nephrite, while still attractive, is softer, more abundant, and commonly used in carvings and decorative objects.

Why Jadeite is Preferred for Fine Jewelry

Jadeite offers a remarkable color range, from deep emerald greens to lavenders and whites, all prized for their vividness and durability. Its superior hardness (6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale) ensures jewelry retains its beauty for generations.

Regions of Authentic Jade Sourcing

The highest quality jadeite primarily originates from Myanmar (Burma), recognized globally for its exquisite jade deposits. Other notable regions include Guatemala, Japan, and Russia. Aulyn sources its jadeite exclusively from these reputable regions, ensuring ethical practices and transparency.

Common Jade Fakes (and How to Spot Them)

Treated Jade: B-Jade and C-Jade

B-jade undergoes bleaching and polymer impregnation to improve appearance, while C-jade is dyed to enhance color artificially. Both treatments significantly reduce jade’s value and longevity.

Common Imitations

- Glass: Often colored to imitate jade’s green hue but lacks jade’s cool, dense feel.
- Plastic: Typically lightweight with visible bubbles or seams.
- Dyed Quartz and Serpentine: These stones can superficially resemble jade but fail detailed inspection.

Signs of Fake Jade

- Too Bright/Unnatural Color: Genuine jade rarely appears overly bright or uniformly colored.
- Bubbles Under Surface: Indicates glass or plastic imitations.
- "Plasticky" Sound: Fake jade often emits a dull, plastic-like sound when tapped.
- Suspiciously Low Price: Genuine jadeite commands premium pricing; excessively cheap items are likely fakes.

Simple Tests You Can Try at Home

The Scratch Test

While jadeite’s hardness makes it resistant to scratches, using a sharp object to scratch jade isn't foolproof and can damage authentic pieces. Proceed with caution or seek alternative tests.

The Temperature Test

Real jade feels remarkably cool to the touch, even in warmer environments, quickly absorbing heat from your hand. Imitations, especially plastic, warm rapidly.

The Sound Test

Authentic jade produces a crisp, resonant, musical sound when gently tapped with a metal object. Fakes produce duller, muted sounds.

The Light Test

Real jade often displays translucency when held up to bright light, revealing natural patterns and subtle inclusions. Solid, uniform textures usually indicate artificial materials.

Certified Jade: Why It Matters

Importance of Third-Party Certification

Independent gemological certification, from institutions such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), verifies jade's authenticity, quality, and treatment history.

Elements of a Genuine Jade Certificate

A valid jade certificate typically includes:
- Jade type (jadeite or nephrite)
- Confirmation of natural, untreated jade
- Detailed description of color, translucency, and clarity
- Origin details

Certification Protects You

Investing in certified jadeite safeguards your purchase, ensuring you don’t overpay for treated or counterfeit stones.

Aulyn’s Commitment to Authenticity

Certified, Untreated Jadeite

At Aulyn, authenticity is non-negotiable. Each jewelry piece uses only certified, untreated jadeite, guaranteeing the highest quality and value.

Ethical Sourcing and Transparency

Our sourcing practices prioritize ethical mining, ensuring fair trade and sustainability. Every stone’s journey from mine to market is transparent, supporting both environmental and social responsibility.

Expert Craftsmanship

Our artisans carefully craft each jewelry item, emphasizing jade’s natural beauty and creating pieces designed to last generations. The blend of expert craftsmanship and authentic jadeite makes every Aulyn creation a cherished heirloom.

Final Tips for First-Time Buyers

Always Request Certification

Never hesitate to ask for jade certification before purchasing. Reputable sellers gladly provide documentation verifying authenticity.

Choose Trusted Sellers

Buying from established brands or sellers with clear sourcing policies reduces the risk of encountering counterfeit products.

Consider the Setting

High-quality jade deserves equally high-quality settings. Opt for solid gold (10k–18k), like those offered by Aulyn, to complement and protect your jade investment.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances between genuine and fake jade helps ensure your purchase is authentic, valuable, and meaningful. Remember, real jade is not just a gemstone; it's a legacy, imbued with history, culture, and emotional depth. At Aulyn, we celebrate jade's timeless beauty and heritage through our carefully crafted jewelry, offering pieces you'll proudly cherish and pass down through generations.