Jade has been prized in China for millennia, not just for its beauty, but for its importance in Chinese society. Called “yu” (玉) in Chinese, it represents purity, beauty, and power.
Whether you collect it, invest in it, or simply want to learn about Chinese culture, knowledge of jade opens up a whole new world of appreciation for this ancient stone.
The History of Jade in China
Jade and nephrite jade have a history that traces back over 8,000 years. During the Neolithic period, jade was oftenon both tools and ornaments.
By the Han Empire, jade had become linked with status and immortality, and emperors were frequently buried with it to protect their souls.
Key Periods in Jade History:
Neolithic Period: Earliest jade carvings in China.
Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC): Jade artifacts used in ritual and ornament.
Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD): Jade burial suits; symbols of everlasting life.
The Four Famous Jades of China
1. Hetian Jade
Hetian jade (nephrite) is not only the oldest but also considered the most valuable type of jade in China. Its smooth texture and warm luster have been a symbol of preeminence for thousands of years.
Origin: Mainly found in Xinjiang Province, in the Kunlun Mountains.
Characteristics:
They come in all hues from white, green, and yellow to black.
Named after its dense, fine grain and superior toughness.
White jade, specifically the “mutton fat” variety, is the most valuable, as it’s the most pure and translucent.
Price:
Good quality mutton fat jadeite can range in price from $3,000-$30,000 USD per gram, based on its grain and translucency.
You can also find cheaper Hetian jade, which costs around $100-500 USD per gram.
2. Lantian Jade
Lantian jade is one of the earliest jades that were used in China and can be traced all the way back to the Neolithic period. People used them to create their ritualistic objects and adornment.
Origin:
Sourced from Lantian County, Shaanxi Province.
The area has a history of jade making that spans over 4,000 years.
Characteristics:
The colors range between white, light blue, and green and they have a slightly waxy luster.
Softer than Hetian jade, being more manageable to carve but less tough.
It’s frequently used for the burial and ceremonial items mentioned above, as they have historical significance.
Price: Prices vary depending on quality and craftsmanship but, generally, the jade is much cheaper than Hetian jade: pieces often go for anywhere between $50-$200 USD per gram.
3. Dushan Jade
Dushan jade is bright and features a wide range of colors and patterns and is usually crafted into decorative carvings or jewelry. It is one of China’s most vibrant jades.
Origin:
Mined from Mount Dushan in Nanyang, Henan Province.
The jade mines here are over 4,000 years old.
Characteristics:
Colors come in a variety of options like green, white, purple, red, and yellow.
Wil often contain more than one color within a single piece and can be used for intricate carvings.
It’s somewhat translucent with a smooth texture and fine grain.
Price:
The cost varies depending on the color and detailed carvings but expect to pay around $20-$300 USD per gram.
Highly detailed carvings can fetch significantly higher prices.
4. Xiuyan Jade
Xiuyan jade, or serpentine jade, is a less expensive, existing variant of jade that has become popular for being pliable, attractive, and workable for modern carving and ornaments.
Origin:
Found in Xiuyan County, Liaoning Province.
One of the biggest jade-producing regions in China, this area has been producing jade for thousands of years.
Characteristics:
Colors include light green and yellow, as well as shades of white and gray.
Less hardy than other types of jade, it’s much easier to carve but also more vulnerable to daily wear and tear.
Mostly used for making larger ornamental statues as well as everyday objects.
Price:
It’s cheap compared to any other type of jade, usually costing between $10-$100 USD per gram.
Larger, more detailed carvings might command a higher price.
Cultural Significance of Jade in China
Jade holds immense symbolic value in Chinese culture. It represents:
Virtue and Morality: Confucius compared jade’s smoothness to virtue.
Wealth and Status: Jade was worn by royalty and nobility.
Protection and Luck: Jade amulets are believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
Common Jade Carvings and Their Meanings
Chinese jade carvings are often rich in symbolism:
Dragon: Power, strength, and protection.
Phoenix: Prosperity and renewal.
Pi Xiu: Attracts wealth and wards off evil.
Lotus: Purity and spiritual growth.
How to Care for Your Jade
1. Regular Cleaning
To clean your jade, gently wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. Don’t use any abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may scratch the stone.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid exposing jade to harsh chemicals or cleaning agents like bleach, as they can pit the stone and dissolve its polish.
If contact with these materials does occur, rinse the jade right away with clean water.
3. Store Properly
When not being worn, keep your jade pieces stored in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box, so they don’t scratch against other stones, gems, or metals.
Never let your jade sit in direct sunlight for long periods, as the exposure can cause its colors to fade.
4. Periodic Polishing
It is a good idea to use a soft microfiber cloth for buffing for regular maintenance: this will maintain the natural beauty of the jade.
If jade is really dirty, wash with a mild soap solution, rinse well, and dry thoroughly.
5. Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes
Rapid temperature fluctuations can cause thermal shock and cracks in jade. Never wear it in extreme heat or cold.
FAQ
1. How do I know if my jade carving is worth anything?
Jade’s value is determined by color, transparency, texture, and the quality of the carving. High-quality jade should be smooth, semi-translucent, and not riddled with obvious cracks. Stones with rare colors, like emerald green or lavender jade, are more valuable.
2. If jade breaks, can it be fixed?
Though jade is very durable, it can be damaged by breaking, cracking, or shattering. Experienced jade restoration can potentially repair some damage to jade by filling cracks or repolishing the stone, but depending on the original extent of the damage, this may decrease the value of the jade.
3. Is jade used in any type of construction or furnishing?
Yes, you can. Jade is employed occasionally in architecture and interior design; it’s typically found in decorative tiles, statues, or even as an inlay for furniture.
4. Can jade be worn every day?
Yes, you can wear jade every day. If well cared for, jade will last a long, long time.
Conclusion
Chinese is not just a precious gemstone, but a cultural and historical legacy.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or a beginner, delving into the history, types, and meaning of jade can only improve your experience.
So, buy it smartly and admire the simple elegance of this stone.