When exploring the world of gemstones, the terms “jade” and “new jade” often cause confusion. While “jade” refers to specific, naturally occurring mineral types valued for centuries, “new jade” is a commercial designation applied to various other green stones or materials that may have undergone treatments. This article clarifies these differences, providing insights into what constitutes true jade and how it compares to materials often marketed under the “new jade” label.
What is True Jade
True jade encompasses two distinct mineral species: nephrite and jadeite. Nephrite, a calcium magnesium iron silicate, is a member of the amphibole mineral group. Its fibrous, interlocking crystal structure contributes to its exceptional toughness. Nephrite exhibits colors from creamy white to dark green, often with a waxy to vitreous luster.
Jadeite, a sodium aluminum silicate, belongs to the pyroxene mineral group. It is generally harder and denser than nephrite. Its microcrystalline structure also contributes to its remarkable toughness. Jadeite’s color spectrum is broader, including white, lavender, yellow, and the highly prized imperial green, due to chromium content. Both nephrite and jadeite have been revered for millennia for their beauty, durability, and perceived mystical properties.
What is Called New Jade
“New jade” is a commercial term, not a geological classification, used to describe various green materials that are not true jade, or true jade that has undergone significant enhancement. Many minerals are marketed as “new jade,” including serpentine (a magnesium iron silicate), hydrogrossular garnet, prehnite, and dyed quartz or calcite. While these possess green hues, they differ fundamentally in mineral composition from nephrite and jadeite.
Beyond different minerals, “new jade” can also refer to genuine jadeite or nephrite that has been subjected to various treatments. These treatments include bleaching (often followed by polymer impregnation for luster and stability, known as B-jade) and dyeing (C-jade) to enhance appearance. These treated materials or alternative minerals differ significantly from natural, untreated jade in structure and long-term stability.
How True Jade and New Jade Differ
The distinction between true jade and “new jade” lies primarily in their fundamental mineral composition. True jade, whether nephrite or jadeite, possesses specific silicate structures that impart unique physical properties. In contrast, materials labeled as “new jade” are composed of entirely different minerals, such as magnesium silicates in serpentine or calcium aluminum silicates in hydrogrossular garnet, each with its own distinct chemical makeup.
Physical properties offer further points of differentiation. True jade, particularly jadeite, typically exhibits a higher density, making it feel notably heavier for its size compared to many “new jade” alternatives. Both nephrite and jadeite are known for their superior toughness, resisting fracturing or chipping due to their interlocking crystal structures. Many “new jade” materials, however, may be more brittle or prone to damage. True jade is often valued in its natural, untreated state, whereas “new jade” frequently involves significant dyeing, impregnation, or is an inherently less durable mineral.
The economic value and market impact also differ greatly. Natural, untreated nephrite and especially jadeite, particularly the rarer imperial green variety, can command very high prices due to their rarity, beauty, and durability. Conversely, materials sold as “new jade” are generally far less valuable, reflecting their abundance or the lower cost associated with their treatments. These treatments can also affect the long-term stability and appearance of “new jade,” as dyes may fade or polymers may degrade over time, unlike natural jade which retains its integrity for centuries.
Identifying True Jade from New Jade
Visual cues can provide initial indications for differentiating true jade from “new jade.” Genuine jade often exhibits a distinctive vitreous to waxy luster, with natural color distribution and subtle variations or mottling. Many “new jade” materials, especially dyed ones, might show unnaturally uniform color or dye concentrations along fractures or within surface irregularities. When viewed with magnification, true jade’s internal texture typically appears compact and fibrous or granular. Some “new jade” materials may show a coarser grain or visible crystalline structures.
The “feel” test is another practical assessment. Due to its high density and thermal conductivity, true jade often feels cool to the touch and retains that coolness longer than many imitation materials. When gently tapped (especially a jade bangle), genuine jade can produce a clear, resonant, bell-like ring, a sound not typically emitted by “new jade” materials. Transparency also varies; some true jade can be translucent, while many “new jade” materials might appear opaque or have different light transmission quality. Ultimately, for conclusive identification and authenticity, purchasing from reputable dealers who provide gemological certifications is the most reliable approach.