JADE

Jadeite jade is an important gemstone which has been valued for thousands of years by Chinese. Chinese people keep jade not simply as a jewel but also as an amulet which hopefully brings good health and good   fortune of prosperity. The criteria for the finesse green jadeite are a combination of the vivid emerald-green color with no flecks of white or any other color, combined with exceptional translucency. It is not surprising that the most ingenious attempts have been made to simulate materials for shish such large sums might be paid.

Dyeing is the most common treatment. Pale green jadeites are dyed to darken them and in recent years lavender and other colors have also been strengthened. Impregnation and coating by polymers help to improve transparency, and some pieces, usually cabochons, can be foiled.