According to an ancient Chinese proverb, “You can put a price on gold, but jade is priceless.”.

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The Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) recently announced its latest addition of its free online courses on gemstones, this time on jade.

Designed for gem enthusiasts and those new to this captivating gemstone, the “Introduction to Jade” course offers insights into jade’s unique characteristics, origins, and historical and cultural significance.

A Beginner’s Guide on Jade

This course explores jade’s two distinct types, nephrite jade and jadeite jade, along with their chemical makeup, sources, and treatments.

Participants will get to know the most common cuts and shapes when refining jade, taking into consideration its crystalline structure that allows intricate craftsmanship unlike faceted gemstones.

One of the highlights is an in-depth look at jade’s unique colours, ranging from vibrant greens to lavender, black, and white. Factors influencing these colours, such as trace elements and environmental conditions during formation will be highlighted in succeeding chapters.

In addition, advanced techniques will be presented on how gemmologists test authenticity and detect treatments.

A History that Spans Millenia

For over 8,000 years across cultures, jade has been prized for its beauty, durability, and symbolism.

In China, jade has been celebrated as the “imperial gem” for millennia, symbolising status, power, and purity. Historically carved from nephrite, the discovery of Burmese jadeite in the late 18th century introduced new colours and textures, elevating jade’s prestige within the imperial court.

Portrait of Rangi Topeora, by Gottfried Lindauer, circa 1863.

Beyond Asia, jade holds deep-rooted importance in cultures like the Maori of New Zealand, who value nephrite or “pounamu,” for its strength and spiritual resonance.

Central American civilisations, such as the Maya and Aztecs, prized jadeite for its beauty and healing properties, crafting exquisite artifacts from Guatemala’s jade deposits.

Even prehistoric Europe had its own jade traditions, with Alpine jadeite and Swiss nephrite being fashioned into tools and ritual objects.

Imperial Green Takes Over Global Stage

While Pigeon’s blood and Royal Blue refer to the finest hues of rubies and sapphires, Imperial Green is the most sought after for jade, particularly for untreated jadeite jade from Burma, Myanmar.

The Hutton-Midvani imperial green jadeite necklace sold for USD 27.4 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in 2014.

Learners will understand the factors that drive this gemstone’s market appeal and the quality determinants that affects its value.

Examples of record-breaking auctions from notable auction houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s will shed light on jade’s allure and increasing demand.

Start Learning About Jade Today

After finishing this engaging and self-paced course, participants also receive a certificate of completion.

SSEF offers more online introductory courses on other fascinating gemstones.

Begin your learning by visiting SSEF Gem School.

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Featured Image: White Nephrite Jade Ji’entang Seal from the Qing Dynasty (Sotheby’s)

Images: (Wikimedia) (SSEF)