Jade is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that has been treasured by cultures around the world for centuries. Its popularity has led to a rise in counterfeit jade bracelets, which can be difficult to distinguish from the real thing. In this article, we will outline how to know if a jade bracelet is real, so that you can confidently purchase an authentic piece of jewelry.
Understanding Jade
Before we delve into how to identify real jade, it is important to understand what jade is and how it is classified. Jade refers to two different types of minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is the rarer and more valuable of the two, and is typically found in green, lavender, white, and yellow colors. Nephrite is more common and is typically found in green, gray, and brown colors.
Jade is also classified by its quality, which is determined by its translucency, color, texture, and overall beauty. The highest quality jade is considered to be “imperial jade”, which is a vivid green color with excellent translucency and a smooth, even texture.
How to Know if a Jade Bracelet is Real
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Examine the Color
One of the first things to look for when trying to identify real jade is the color. Real jade should have a natural and consistent color throughout the bracelet. Jadeite is typically found in shades of green, lavender, white, and yellow. Nephrite is typically found in shades of green, gray, and brown.
If the color of the bracelet appears to be too bright, uniform, or artificially enhanced, it may be a sign that it is not real jade. Similarly, if the color appears to be inconsistent or blemished, it may be a sign that the bracelet is made of lower quality jade or is a fake.
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Test the Hardness
Jade is a very hard and durable gemstone, which means that it is difficult to scratch or damage. One way to test the hardness of a jade bracelet is to try scratching it with a sharp object such as a knife or piece of glass. If the bracelet is real jade, it should be very difficult to scratch or damage.
If the bracelet appears to be easily scratched or damaged, it may be a sign that it is not made of real jade. Similarly, if the bracelet appears to be chipped or cracked, it may be a sign that it is of low quality or is a fake.
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Check the Texture
The texture of real jade should be smooth and consistent. If you run your fingers over the surface of the bracelet, it should feel cool and slightly waxy to the touch. If the bracelet feels rough or grainy, it may be a sign that it is not real jade.
Another way to check the texture of the bracelet is to hold it up to a light source. Real jade should be slightly translucent, which means that some light should be able to pass through the bracelet. If the bracelet appears to be opaque or overly transparent, it may be a sign that it is not real jade.
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Look for Natural Inclusions
Real jade is a natural gemstone that often contains small inclusions or imperfections. These inclusions are a sign of the authenticity of the jade and are what make each piece unique. If the jade bracelet appears to be flawless or too perfect, it may be a sign that it is not real jade.
When examining the bracelet, look for small inclusions such as tiny cracks, veins, or pits. These imperfections should be natural and consistent throughout the bracelet. If the inclusions appear to be too uniform or artificially placed, it may be a sign that the bracelet is a fake.
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Seek Professional Appraisal
If you are still unsure about whether your jade bracelet is real or fake, you may want to seek a professional appraisal. A certified gemologist or jade expert can examine the bracelet using specialized tools and techniques to determine its authenticity.
When seeking a professional appraisal, it is important to choose a reputable appraiser who has experience working with jade. Ask for references and credentials, and do your research to ensure that the appraiser has a good reputation in the industry.
In conclusion, identifying real jade can be a challenge, especially with the rise of counterfeit jade bracelets on the market. However, by following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of purchasing an authentic piece of jade jewelry.
Remember to examine the color, test the hardness, check the texture, look for natural inclusions, and seek professional appraisal if necessary. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your jade bracelet is not only beautiful, but also valuable and authentic.
