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Guide to Collecting Antique Jade

Posted on by Judith Dowling

Mention jade and most people think of a green stone, when in fact, jade comes in a variety of colors. In addition to the familiar green hues ranging from celadon to dark “spinach” greet, antique jade may be white, lavender, yellow, brown, gray, or reddish-purple.

Another important thing to understand about jade is that there are two different types of jade stones: nephrite and jadeite. Both can be found in river beds or mined at depths of ten to twenty feet, and both come in all colors, though nephrite’s colors are less vivid than the colors of jadeite. Hence, identifying the two stone types can be difficult.

Jadeite Covered Censer, China, possibly Qianlong period, sold for $30,750 on March 19, 2016

Nephrite has been used in China since prehistoric times for weapons and ritual objects. It wasn’t until the 18th century that large quantities of jadeite were imported from Burma, the country recognized as having some of the best jadeite in the world. The finest, emerald green pieces were much favored by the Qinlong Emperor, resulting in the term “imperial jade.”

Imperial jade is not the only sought-after form of antique jade. Collectors also prize fine, white nephrite carvings for their translucent surface. Some jade contains dark russet inclusions or the brown “skin” of the stone which early jade carvers would often work into the design, a good indication that the jade has been carved by a master, and may also increase the value of a piece of jade.

VALUE MY ANTIQUE JADE

Nephrite Yellow Jade Covered Vase, China, 19th/20th century, sold for $47,970 on September 15, 2017
Jade Carving, China, 19th century, sold for $35,670 on on September 15, 2017

The preference for “imperial jade,” especially in fine jewelry, has resulted in various substitutes for real jade. If marked easily, it is likely that the piece is one of the common substitutes for jade such as serpentine, aventurine or calcite are among the most common softer stone alternatives

Organic dyes may also be used to enhance or color nephrite, jadeite, or their substitutes. Stones must be carefully inspected with a magnifying glass to look for traces of dye. A gemologist can also test for dyes.

If you’re interested in purchasing antique jade, imperial or other, it’s important to inspect the pieces carefully to understand the differences and ensure authenticity.

Identifying Jade: Nephrite or Jadeite?

  • The surface of jadeite tends to be vitreous or glassy.

  • Nephrite’s surface tends to appear waxy or greasy.

  • Real jade is cold to the touch and quickly absorbs the warmth of your
    hand. However, several substitutes will also pass this test.

  • Neither nephrite or jadeite should be marked easily by a sharp object such as a razor blade, although nephrite can be marked more easily than jadeite, which is harder on the MOHS scale.

  • Both nephrite and jadeite are very dense stones and should feel comparatively heavy when handled. Density of a piece is something that can be measured to further aid identification.

  • Jade should have a pleasant “ringing” sound when touched against another piece.

Connoisseurship of jade requires more than a quick examination. To learn what qualifies as the best examples, or to ensure that a piece of jade is real, I recommend consulting with an expert. It also helps to visit fine jade collections at museums, galleries, and auction houses. Handling the pieces and asking questions about their provenance, history, and value is the path to understanding and enjoying the magical qualities of jade.

CONSIGN ANTIQUE JADE

Consider reading:
The Allure of Chinese Blue and White Porcelain

70 thoughts on “Guide to Collecting Antique Jade”

  1. Question for you: I have a tiny, 1 one inch (overall height)beautifully carved BLUE JADE Buddha with a small pink streak, set in 24K gold. He is sitting on an elobrate gold pillow with a gold fan behind his crowned head. I purchased this in an antique shop in Hong Kong about 30 years ago. I showed it to a gemologist recently. He became very excited, said this was very, very rare, and offered me $2000.00 on the spot. I kept it. It has a small loop at the top to wear on a chain, or to hang in a glass case, as I did. What, in your opinion, would be the market for something like this?

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    • i have a finely carved 4 in. jade carving on a stand carved for the object. It is slightly greenish jade with two blackish colored monkeys ,one on each end. the stand has been carved for it.There are grapes on the vine that the monkeys are on. Would this be fare to ask $6000.00?
      I have had it for over 60 yrs in a cabinet. Can from Chinese estate in Calif back them.

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  2. Question for you: I have a tiny, 1 one inch (overall height)beautifully carved BLUE JADE Buddha with a small pink streak, set in 24K gold. He is sitting on an elobrate gold pillow with a gold fan behind his crowned head. I purchased this in an antique shop in Hong Kong about 30 years ago. I showed it to a gemologist recently. He became very excited, said this was very, very rare, and offered me $2000.00 on the spot. I kept it. It has a small loop at the top to wear on a chain, or to hang in a glass case, as I did. What, in your opinion, would be the market for something like this?

    Reply ↓

  3. I have just purchased a Jadeite Plaque for a couple hundred dollars,it is a woodland scene from the 1930’s The woman i purchased it from says it appears to be color enhanced ?Under black light? I am not sure the piece weighs in at over 300 grams . How detrimental is this to the jadeite it certainly looks natural and I had read that if the jade is dyed or color enhanced it usually starts to fade ? Is my “Find ” worht at least what I paid/ it is a green and dark amber color . no cracks or any thing Coin carved on top of piece. Thanks for any help 🙂

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  4. I have just purchased a Jadeite Plaque for a couple hundred dollars,it is a woodland scene from the 1930’s The woman i purchased it from says it appears to be color enhanced ?Under black light? I am not sure the piece weighs in at over 300 grams . How detrimental is this to the jadeite it certainly looks natural and I had read that if the jade is dyed or color enhanced it usually starts to fade ? Is my “Find ” worht at least what I paid/ it is a green and dark amber color . no cracks or any thing Coin carved on top of piece. Thanks for any help 🙂

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  5. I have two old stone carvings, hand chiseled, piercings from both sides to center mass. Think they are chinese scepters but not the backscratcher kind. They are huge and have handles like hammers. White muttonfat grey stones with peachy brown in carved areas. No polish bees wax; talking real old stones. One seems older then the other with ware on grip areas, both same design. Problem is I can only find reference to these in myths. Listed them on eBay at Hollywood prices and the lookie lue counter went nuts. Five pounds of real white mutton fat jade and no bids, but the molded glass jade seems to sell good on eBay.

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  6. I have two old stone carvings, hand chiseled, piercings from both sides to center mass. Think they are chinese scepters but not the backscratcher kind. They are huge and have handles like hammers. White muttonfat grey stones with peachy brown in carved areas. No polish bees wax; talking real old stones. One seems older then the other with ware on grip areas, both same design. Problem is I can only find reference to these in myths. Listed them on eBay at Hollywood prices and the lookie lue counter went nuts. Five pounds of real white mutton fat jade and no bids, but the molded glass jade seems to sell good on eBay.

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  7. About 43 years ago I found a small (app 2cm)dark green jade Buddha whilst gem stoning with my father, the colour is solid, I was curious as to where to take him to be appraised as I live in a small town in Australia..

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  8. Hello,

    I have a head piece, which is made of black velvet. It has what appears to be hand carved jade Buddhas along the edge. The crown of the head piece is cut out. A Chinese man told me that he thinks it is Chinese and would have belonged to a well-to-do family. He said the woman would have worn it.

    If you can shed any further light on the origin and purpose of the head piece, I would appreciate it very much.
    Regards, Bev

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  9. I have 2 Chinese Foo Dogs which are the most intricately carved I have ever seen. I took them to be appraised at our local auction house where they told me they had no way of knowing for sure if it were carved from jade or soap stone. I’ve seen two items at MOMA which bore a strong resemblance to these dogs of mine. I had a Chinese plumber at my home and when he saw the dogs he said “finest jade I have ever seen”. I want the stone assayed to find out the true nature of the material do you know where this can be done? Thanks for your consideration. I want to sell these items but I want fair value.

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  11. I have beautiful jade jewelry piece with ruby and emerald and carving done on jade.I have purchased this long time back. Its along with pair of earrings. As per gemological test its Nephrite Jade. Wanted to know the price of it.

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  12. I have a very old Oriental statute that was my parents. I was told by my dad that it was white jade statue on a possibly brown jade base. I know nothing else about it but everyone who sees it falls in love with it. It’s 12-1/2″ tall. Where can I go to find out more about it? Thank you so very much!

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  13. Hello Judith,
    I live in Indonesia. I have a rude brown red colour lookliked jade covered by thin clear layer which in bottom side has a thick sparkling diamond like layer. I found it in my garden when digging. I do the scracth test and the stone isn’t scratched,it feels cold and it doesn’t get warm quickly when I burn with candle. May you tell me what kind stone is this? Thank You.

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  15. I found a piece of Jade art of a person an their knees with their face covered with their arms. There is no facial features or hand features. The piece is about 6 inches long and about 3 inches high and looks like a brownish green color. I took it to a jewelry store and they said it was definitely jade and that I should find out the value. Can you help me? Thank you Cindy

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  16. I have a Vintage Chinese Medium Green Foo Dog Stone Sculpture with his little black stand. Size 11x6x3″ (27.94 x 15.24 x 7.62 cm)It is in excellent condition. I would like to sell it, but I do not know of it’s value. I do know that you can find the small and large foo dogs, but I have only seen one other medium one on the internet like mine with the stand. Can you please advise?
    see image at this location. Thank you!!
    http://www.junkables.com/jimages/memproductimages/4277/foodog.jpg

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  17. greetings
    I have shaped jade sculptures and other forms of
    I want to sell it, if you want to buy it and if there are other people who are interested to buy it ..
    if you want to see the detail please contact me at this email ..
    thank you.

    vodkalageyoga@gmail.com

    Reply ↓

  18. I have a jade statue of Confucius, 2 ladies from china told me that.
    it was going in the trash and i asked for it it is about 8 pounds. he stands on a stump and holds a peach sead in his right hand i call him MR FU

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  20. I have a pair of what seem to be antique jade lion dogs carved from solid heavy blocks of jade I can’t find ones like mine anywhere can anyone help me identify them?

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  21. I have 1 jade pendant & 1 bangle with me from my grandma’s present when my birthday. but i didn’t know what type of jade’s are this. can please someone help me to identify them? thanks

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  22. I have several pieces of beautifully carved jade I am looking to sell but finding a buyer is turning out to be difficult. Not for sure what they are worth either I would greatly appreicate any help anyone could offer reply back and I’ll email photos to you if interested

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  23. I have a stone like jade with oval shape and brownish,green,blue colour it’s also have a small hole up to hang up with chain it’s like striped pattern with colour.Please help me to identify what is that?Thank you

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  24. In 1989 I purchased a heavy (weighs 2 pounds) jade “fetish” that was described to me as carved in the 1960’s for women who wanted top ward off birth defects during pregnancy. A Frenchman had a little shop in Venice Beach, CA and I saw it covered with dust sitting in the window. I just had to have it! I haggled him down to $275.00. It is a goat-like figure with horns carved close together, a big nose, pointed ears, a little smile, on its human-like face. It’s arms are wrapped around itself. He said it collected it from Zimbabwe. What do you know about such a fetish? Thanks, Dawn

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  25. I INHERITED A STATUE THAT I BELIEVE IS JADE IT LOOKS TO BE A BUDHA ON A HORSE WITH A SMALL BUDHA ON HIS BACK AND HAS A WOOD CARVED WOOD BASE THAT IT SITS ON. I CAN SEND PICTURES . I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE IT IS FROM AND HOW OLD IT IS.ALSO A VALUE IF POSSIBLE. CAN YOU HELP?

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  27. Sent for an appraisal on a Rython nephrite jade cup but never got a response. Listed it with other archaic jades on Oklahoma craigslist but doubt we have a market in Oklahoma. Also sent in for an appraisal on an ivory and jade inlaid cabinet out of Korea War era. No response; also on craigslist. Why no response? Am I blacklisted?

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  28. I sent Skinner an email & then it disappeared! I have a broken shining green jade med.26 bead necklace with a big shining jade green clasp; I shined a light on it and it has small cloudy white specks in it but not seen without a light and all feel cold. I also have a black jade inset that came from an oriental ring and a beautiful pr. of jade clasp old- style teardrop ear-rings They all came in an TWA Airlines Lost & Found Grab-bag sale after no one claimed; in the 1950’s or early “60’s. I am having difficulties taking the photos. How much are cost of appraisals?

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  29. kathleen I have what I believe to be a pink jade bead necklace ,it could be some other rock or even glass i suppose ,under 10x it has a curdled look that I have seen in jade ,its hard can not scratch it with the tip of a scissors ,they are cold to touch and all beads slightly different ,some on ends seem less polished and somewhat worn and porous ,there are about 80 beads about 3/8 ” long although all oval,not all perfectly sized ,they are strung on old pink cord knotted behind ,seems to have lost its clasp years ago and now its simply tied ,there are what appear to be navy blue specks here and there on these beads when under 10X mag in the sun ,under a UV light indoors it shows pink but the beads are a spotted and splotchy yellow .Thank you for any help in determining the composition of these beads .

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  30. Could you advise me of the rarity of a large spinach-green bright plaque (20″ x 11″) in a wire inlaid frame depicting a profusely carved dragon dating to the late qing dynasty.
    I did see a set of four plaques (seasons) sold at Christies ‘EXCEPTIONAL SALE’ 13 april 2016 LOT # 10 FOR US1,505,000.

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  31. I have a two pound Dark green Buddha with a whitish band running from head down the shoulders. All carved from the same stone.
    I have no papers but it is signed under the dark wood base. It’s signed in a language like Korean, but I can’t find its interpretation in any of the oriental languages. I’m sure its a signature.
    I was gifted this around forty years ago. I have no idea of it’s history – but it’s impressive.
    I think it might do well in auction, but It has what I think is some slight deterioration under the eyes. I’m not sure of that though.

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  33. I own a Jade brooch that was hand made in San Francisco during the 49er Gold Rush era. It is believed to be made of 22K gold. Measures approximately 1.75 by 1.25. The Jade is encased in the Gold. Any chance you can tell me what the price range of a piece like this might be. It’s been in my family for over 160 years.

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    • Hi Gloria, we’re glad you enjoyed our post on collecting antique jade. Material and color are such important factors that we’d want more information before suggesting an auction value for your jade brooch. You are welcome to submit the information and images on our site: https://goo.gl/7WLrQW and a specialist will reply. KAS

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  34. I received a necklace a few years back that I have decided to research.
    I believe to maybe be seed Jade material. It’s got the oily /greasy look to it. It’s almost a clear looking stone with some yellowish marks here and there like a river Jade has. It’s very old . It has the original price tag on it from more than 30 yrs ago is my understanding of when it was purchased. It is a necklace of 60 beautiful beads. I would gladly send you photos . Thanks

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    • Dear Patty:
      Thank you for commenting on our post by Judith from our Asian Art Department. We are thrilled that so many others are also enthusiastic about Jade. What we typically recommend for you to gather information is to submit an inquiry to our Appraisal Department. We will forward your inquiry to our Asian Works of Art specialist. Please use our auction evaluation form to send images for evaluation: https://www.skinnerinc.com/selling/sell-at-auction.

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  36. Hi

    I recently purchased a spinach jade 40 inch by 19 inch 8 running horse sculpture from Angela and J gallery in Manhattan. It is a solid piece in excellent condition and is very heavy. I paid a premium price for this item and I would like to know definitively as to weather I received good value.

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  37. Hi my name is Greg Jett.
    I have several carved jade figures. I have been trying to find information on them. If you could reply to this email I will be happy to send pictures ,

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  39. Hi i just puchased a piece of russet andvwhite jade pendant in the form of a bat on astone facing into a rolling wind just wanted to kno more about this its stunning

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    • Hello Peter, Thank you for your email regarding your purchase. Bats are one of the very popular and important symbos in Chinese culture, believed to bring good fortune. What you see as rolling wind could be clouds. Bats combined with auspicious clouds mean “May you have good fortune and luck.” The value of jade pieces are entirely based on the type and quality of the stone. If you could send us some photograhs, we can tell you more about the bat carving and how much would it be in the secondary market. https://www.skinnerinc.com/selling/sell-at-auction/ or evaluations@skinnerinc.com. Thank you!

      Reply ↓

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