Definition of Real and Natural Jade?

In simple terms, real and natural jade refers to Jadeite or Nephrite that has not undergone any chemical treatments.

 

Real Jade

Only two types of minerals can be considered as real jade: Jadeite (Hard Jade) and Nephrite (Soft Jade).

Jadeite (Hard Jade)
Jadeite is composed primarily of pyroxene minerals and has the chemical composition of sodium aluminum silicate. It has a higher hardness and a bright luster and comes in various colors, including green, purple, white, red, black, etc. Jewelry-grade Jadeite is primarily sourced from Myanmar and Guatemala.

Nephrite (Soft Jade)
Nephrite is a variety of tremolite or actinolite, primarily made of calcium magnesium silicate. Its hardness is slightly lower than jadeite. Nephrite comes in colors such as white, green, yellow, etc. It is highly regarded for its smooth, lustrous texture. Jewelry-grade nephrite is mainly sourced from regions like Xinjiang, China, and Russia.

 

Natural Jade

Natural jade is a piece of jade that has not undergone treatments such as acid washing (for impurity removal), color dyeing, or impregnation with resin (to enhance transparency and density).

In professional jade identification, natural jade is referred to as Grade-A or Type-A, which means it has not undergone any treatments.

Jade that has undergone enhancement of transparency and density (acid washing and impregnation) is classified as Grade-B or Type-B.

If the jade has been treated with enhancement of transparency, density, and color (acid washing, impregnation, and color dyeing), it is categorized as Grade-B+C or Type-B+C.