Bangkok—Lotus Gemology, a renowned gemological laboratory based in Bangkok, has unveiled its latest publication, offering a deep dive into the intricate history of jade.
Titled “Broken Bangle: Unraveling the Complex Legacy of Jade Nomenclature,” this new book explores the convoluted history surrounding jade terminology, shedding light on how contemporary jade names have been shaped by historical inaccuracies and misconceptions.
The publication includes contributions from leading figures in the field of gemology and features a rich assortment of illustrations, including works by prominent modern jade and stone carvers from China, as well as historical documents and photographs.
Authored by a distinguished team including geologist and gemologist Liu Shang-i, Lotus Gemology’s founder and expert on rubies and sapphires Richard W. Hughes, Director of the Gemology Education Center at Shanghai’s Tongji University Zhou Zhengyu, and Lotus Gemology gemologist Kaylan Khourie, the book is a comprehensive exploration of jade’s historical and cultural significance.
“Broken Bangle” delves into the etymology of key jade terms such as “nephrite” and “fei cui.”
In the mid-19th century, French mineralogist Alexis Damour analyzed the Chinese gem known as yù, an amphibole jade, and erroneously labeled it “nephrite,” mistakenly believing it was the same as the Mesoamerican pyroxene jade that a 16th-century Spanish physician had misidentified as a treatment for kidney issues (hence “nephritus”).
Later, in 1863, Damour introduced the term “jadeite” for a newly discovered mineral. However, “jadeite” had been recognized in China for over two hundred years under the term fei cui (pronounced “fay choy”), which encompasses all pyroxene jades used in Chinese trade.
Recent research has revealed that jadeite is a composite rock containing three mineral components: jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor. Due to the minuscule size of these components, accurately identifying a stone’s exact mineral makeup remains a challenge.
Following these findings, in July 2023, Lotus Gemology updated its lab reports, replacing the terms jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor with “fei cui.”
In December 2023, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) also revised its jade reports, opting to use the trade term “fei cui” with a clarification that it includes jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor.
“Our understanding of the world is profoundly influenced by the names we use. As our knowledge of history, culture, and science evolves, it’s crucial to adopt accurate and culturally resonant names for these jade types, reflecting their heritage and current understanding,” said lead author Liu Shang-i.
Co-author Zhou Zhengyu remarked, “In China, there is an old saying, ‘casting a brick to attract jade.’ This book is a step in the ongoing journey of understanding. Although it is not the final word, we hope it enhances comprehension of this gem’s rich history and stimulates further exploration into its story.”
The book also includes insights into other aspects of Chinese culture, covering extensive historical narratives of the Middle Kingdom.
Supported by Zhuang Qingfang, The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong, On Tung Jewellery, Junhao Gemology, Pinde Xuan, and Lotus Gemology, “Broken Bangle” is limited to just 600 copies. It is available for purchase on Lotus Gemology’s official website.
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