How to Care for Jade (and What a Broken Bracelet Means)

Natural jade is remarkably tough, but a few simple habits keep it glowing for a lifetime — and beyond.

Everyday care

• Wear it often — skin contact keeps nephrite's lustre alive.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: perfume, bleach and strong cleaners can dull the surface over time. Apply cosmetics before putting jade on.
• Clean gently with warm water and a soft cloth. Skip ultrasonic cleaners for treated or fracture-filled stones.
• Store separately so harder gems (like diamonds) don't scratch the polish.
• Protect from sharp knocks on hard surfaces.

Men's jade bracelets

Men's jade — especially darker green and black nephrite beaded bracelets — is one of the fastest-growing styles we see. The same care applies: wear it, keep it away from chemicals, and rotate beads occasionally so they wear evenly.

What does it mean when a jade bracelet breaks?

In Chinese tradition, a jade bangle that breaks is often seen as having "taken" a misfortune on the wearer's behalf — absorbing bad luck or a blow so you don't. Many people keep the pieces, have them re-set in gold or silver, or carry a fragment as a protective token. Practically, breakage usually comes from a hard impact rather than any flaw in good jade.

Re-setting and repair

A broken bangle can be transformed: pieces are commonly remounted as pendants, rings or charms in 18K gold or 925 silver. If you have a piece you'd like reimagined, send us a photo and we'll advise.