Jade is a beautiful and highly valued gemstone that has been prized for thousands of years. It is available in a variety of colors, including green, white, yellow, lavender, and red. However, the most valuable and sought-after color of jade is a deep, emerald green known as “Imperial Jade.” In this article, we will explore why imperial jade is the most expensive jade color and what makes it so special.
- Origin
Imperial Jade is named after the imperial court of China, where it was highly prized and used to make jewelry and decorative objects for the emperor and his court. It is found primarily in Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) and is known for its intense green color and translucency. The most prized Imperial Jade comes from the Hpakan-Tawmaw jadeite mine in Myanmar, which is the only source of high-quality jadeite in the world.
- Color
The color of Imperial Jade is what makes it so valuable. It is a deep, rich green color that is caused by the presence of chromium and iron in the mineral. The intensity of the green color depends on the amount of chromium present, with the most valuable jade having a bright, emerald green hue. The color of Imperial Jade is also described as having a “glow” or “fire,” which is caused by its high translucency.
- Translucency
Imperial Jade is known for its high degree of translucency, meaning that light can pass through it to a high degree. This is what gives it its unique “glow” or “fire” and makes it so prized among collectors and jewelry makers. The degree of translucency is affected by the mineral’s structure and the way it is cut and polished.
- Clarity
The clarity of Imperial Jade is also an important factor in its value. The most valuable jade is free from inclusions, which are natural imperfections in the stone. If there are inclusions present, they should be minimal and not affect the stone’s transparency or overall appearance.
- Demand
The rarity of high-quality Imperial Jade and its unique color and translucency have made it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Its use in jewelry and decorative objects has been coveted for centuries, and the demand for Imperial Jade remains high among collectors and investors alike.
In conclusion, Imperial Jade is the most expensive jade color due to its rarity, intense green color, high translucency, and demand among collectors and investors. Its association with the imperial court of China and its use in jewelry and decorative objects for thousands of years have only added to its value and mystique. If you are lucky enough to own a piece of Imperial Jade, you can be sure that you have a truly special and valuable gemstone.
