The two main sources of jade on the market today are from Canada and China. But which jade is better – Canadian or Chinese? Here is an overview of the similarities and differences between these two types of jade to help you decide.
What is Jade?
Jade refers to two different metamorphic rocks: nephrite and jadeite. Nephrite is the more common form and is softer and more affordable than the rarer jadeite. Jadeite is harder and considered more precious. Both types of jade come in a variety of green shades as well as white, pink, brown, red, orange, yellow, lavender and black.
The name jade comes from the Spanish term "piedra de ijada" which means "stone of the side" since it was thought to cure kidney ailments. Jade has a long history of cultural significance in China, where it is called yu and was revered for its beauty and rumored to have healing powers. Jade jewelry and ornaments were reserved for royalty in ancient China.
Canadian Jade
Most Canadian jade is nephrite and is found along British Columbia's rugged west coast and on Vancouver Island. Canada is one of the world's largest producers of nephrite jade. Canadian jade ranges in color from dark green to apple green to white. It often contains appealing dapples, veins or patterns.
The advantage of Canadian jade is that it is very affordable, especially when compared to fine jadeite. It has a pleasing color and luster and takes an excellent polish. Canadian jade is durable enough for jewelry and everyday wear. It can be carved into beautiful ornaments. Disadvantages are that nephrite jade is relatively soft and can scratch or chip.
Chinese Jade
Chinese jade refers to both nephrite and jadeite. Excellent quality nephrite is found in China's Xinjiang province. But China is most famous for its fine jadeite, unearthed from the country's southwest region. Burma is another source for top quality jadeite.
The finest Chinese jadeite is called Imperial jade. It has incredible transparency and vivid, even color in jewel tones of emerald green, lavender and a distinctive apple green called Imperial green. Chinese jadeite is extremely hard and very difficult to carve. Top quality jadeite can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per piece. Lower grades have flaws and opaque spots but still exhibit beautiful color.
Disadvantages of Chinese jadeite are the high cost and fragility. Flaws are common even in expensive pieces. Jadeite is best suited for jewelry and small decorative objects rather than heavy functional items or large carvings.
Which is Better?
For most buyers, beautiful and affordable Canadian nephrite jade is the best choice. It has an attractive look with flowing colors and patterns and makes wonderful jewelry as well as ornamental objects. Exceptional pieces of Chinese Imperial jadeite are in a class by themselves in terms of value and prestige but are unrealistic purchases for the average consumer. Mid-range jadeite can actually look very similar to fine nephrite when polished but comes with a much higher price tag.
In the end, Canadian and Chinese jade both have their merits. When choosing it comes down to personal preference, budget and intended use. For an accessory to wear every day or a superb carving, Canadian jade is arguably superior. But serious collectors covet the best jadeite for its unparalleled color and beauty. Both types of jade remain timeless statement gems grounded in tradition.
