Types of Jadeite: How to identify the authenticity ?
Fei Cui (known as Jadeite) exists in multiple forms, each with different levels of authenticity, treatment, and value. While natural Fei Cui is highly prized for its purity and rarity, treated jadeite can also be found in the market, often enhancing its appearance but it’s not good for health, and will reduce its value.
Understanding the different types of Fei Cui will help you make informed decisions when selecting jadeite jewelry, ensuring that you invest in pieces of lasting beauty and value.
1. Type A: Natural Jadeite – Pure
Type A Jadeite is completely natural, untreated that has only been cut, polished, sometimes engraved. It is the most valuable and highly sought-after form of jadeite because it retains its original mineral composition and structure.
Key Characteristics:
✔ 100% natural—no chemical treatments or artificial enhancements.
✔ Maintains its original translucency and color.
✔ Retains and even appreciates in value over time.
2. Type B: Chemically Treated Jadeite – Enhanced Clarity, Reduced Integrity
Type B Jadeite undergoes an artificial enhancement process to improve its clarity and appearance. This involves bleaching the stone to remove impurities and then injecting it with polymer resin to restore its structure and shine. While this makes the jadeite appear more vibrant, it also weakens its durability and value.
How to Identify Type B Jadeite:
✔ Too bright and clean appearance, sometimes unnaturally.
✔ Lacks the natural weight and density of Type A jadeite.
✔ Under UV light, the resin may fluoresce, revealing treatment.
✔ More affordable but not considered an investment-grade jadeite.
3. Type C: Dyed Jadeite – Artificially Enhanced Color
Type C Jadeite is jadeite that has been chemically dyed to enhance or completely change its color. While this treatment can create visually striking pieces, the color is not stable over time—it may fade when exposed to sunlight or heat.
How to Identify Type C Jadeite:
✔ Colors may appear too vibrant or unnatural, especially greens and purples.
✔ Over time, exposure to light or body heat may cause fading.
✔ Under UV light, artificial dyes may cause fluorescence.
✔ Considerably lower in value compared to Type A jadeite.
4. Type B+C: Double Treatment – Bleached and Dyed Jadeite
Type B+C jadeite undergoes both bleaching (Type B) and dyeing (Type C), meaning it is both chemically treated to remove impurities and artificially colored to enhance vibrancy. This type of jadeite is the most heavily altered and has the lowest value compared to natural Jadeite.
Why Type B, Type C and B+C is Least Desirable:
✔ Long-time wear may have negative effects on health.
✔ Structurally weakened due to chemical treatments.
✔ Artificial color that does not hold up over time.
✔ Fluoresces under UV light due to both resin filling and dyes.
✔ Considered decorative but not suitable for collectors or investment.
5. Why Understanding Jadeite Types Matters
Choosing jadeite is about more than just beauty—it’s about authenticity, longevity, and value. While Type B and Type C jadeite may seem visually appealing at first glance, they do not retain the same value or durability as natural Type A jadeite.
Invest Wisely: What to Look for in High-Quality Jadeite
✔ Transparency: Genuine Type A jadeite has a natural glow that artificial treatments cannot replicate.
✔ Color Stability: Natural hues maintain their brilliance over time, while dyed jadeite may fade.
✔ Durability: Treated jadeite is weaker and more prone to cracking, while natural jadeite remains strong for generations.
✔ Certification: Always request certification from a reputable gemological lab when purchasing high-value jadeite.
Final Thoughts: Owning a Piece of True Jadeite Beauty
At EnJade, we believe in offering only the finest Type A jadeite—natural, untreated, and full of the rare beauty that makes Jadeite so special. By understanding the different types of jadeite, you can confidently choose pieces that are not just jewelry but treasured heirlooms with lasting significance.