Jadeite vs Nephrite: The Two True Jades Explained

Both jadeite and nephrite are genuinely "jade", but they are two distinct minerals. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right stone for your budget and style.

Quick comparison

• Jadeite— rarer and generally more valuable. Capable of vivid "imperial" green and glassy translucency. Hardness ~6.5–7. Finest material historically comes from Myanmar (Burma).
• Nephrite (including Hetian jade) — tougher and more abundant, with a soft, oily lustre in white, green and lavender. Hardness ~6–6.5. More accessible and perfect for everyday wear.

How they look

Jadeite can be brighter and more crystalline, with a glassy shine. Nephrite has a warmer, waxy-to-oily glow and a felted, ultra-tough structure that resists chipping — one reason it has been carved for thousands of years.

Price

Top jadeite is among the most expensive gem materials in the world, while excellent nephrite remains attainable. If you want maximum beauty per dollar for daily wear, nephrite is hard to beat. If you want a statement collector stone, fine jadeite is the target.

What "Type A" means

Type A jade is natural and untreated — only mechanically polished, never dyed or impregnated with polymer. Type B (bleached and resin-filled) and Type C (dyed) look attractive initially but degrade and hold little value. Insist on Type A with a certificate.

Jadeite origin: Guatemalan vs Burmese

Jadeite comes mainly from Myanmar (Burma) and Guatemala — both genuine, natural jadeite. One practical difference matters for shipping: the United States and EU restrict imports of Burmese jadeite, so for US/EU delivery, Guatemalan jadeite is the simpler choice. We label the origin on every piece so you can choose with full information.

Which should you buy?

For versatile, beautiful everyday jewelry at fair prices, choose nephrite (Hetian). For a rare, vivid collector piece, choose certified Type A jadeite. We offer both — explore the collection and enquire for guidance.