Learn how professional appraisers identify real jadeite and detect artificially treated stones
The Jadeite ABC Grading System
We use the standard industry grading scale to classify the purity of jadeite:
Type A: Completely natural and untreated jadeite. (Surface polishing with colorless wax is accepted). Type B: Jadeite that has been chemically bleached or treated with acid. Type C: Jadeite that has been artificially stained or color-dyed. Type B+C: Jadeite that has undergone both acid treatment and artificial dyeing.
Essential Tools for Jadeite Testing
Professional gemmologists use specialized tools to check the authenticity of gemstone items.
1. Chelsea Colour Filter
Primary Use: Identifying coloured stones and green gemstones.
How it Works: High-quality natural jadeite (containing chromium and iron) and emeralds will show a distinct red fluorescence under this specialised filter.
Note: This test provides a helpful reference guide and should be paired with other testing methods.
2. 365nm UV Light Inspection
Primary Use: Detecting chemical enhancements in Jadeite and Nephrite stones.
How it Works: Heavily treated Type B+C jadeite contains polymers or resins that glow strongly under a 365nm UV light.
Note: Standard surface polishing wax can sometimes create a very faint glow under UV light. A minor surface wax glow does not mean the gemstone has been artificially enhanced.
