Jadeite, a powerful and attractive jade variety, has won the love of countless people since ancient times for its unique color and texture. However, how to identify the authenticity and quality of jadeite has always been a concern for jade lovers. This article will detail several methods for identifying jadeite to help you better appreciate and identify jadeite.
1. Observe the appearance.
Observing the appearance of jadeite is a crucial step in the initial identification of its authenticity. High-quality jadeite usually exhibits a distinctive green hue and is naturally coloured in a moderate shade. At the same time, the texture of the jadeite should be clear and transparent, without obvious impurities and cracks. When viewed in bright light, real jadeite exhibits a unique "fly-wing" effect, i.e., tiny points of brilliance. Synthetic jadeite or dyed jadeite is often too bright or too dull in color and lacks natural layering.
2. Test hardness.
Jadeite is the hardest jade in nature, with a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scaleBetween 5-7. This means that when you scratch other jade stones or coins with jadeite, there are no scratches left on the surface of the real jadeite. With this property, we can easily distinguish true jadeite from other jade stones of lower hardness.
3. Ultraviolet fluorescence test.
Under ultraviolet light, true jadeite usually fluoresces blue-white or green. Dyed jadeite often does not fluoresce under ultraviolet light, or emits a fluorescent color that is different from that of natural jadeite. This method helps us identify jadeites that have been dyed or chemically added.
Fourth, the specific gravity test.
The specific gravity of jadeite is usually higher than that of other jade. By comparing the weight of jadeite with other similar objects, we can make a preliminary judgment about its authenticity. Real jadeite will have a noticeable pressure feel, while synthetic or filled jadeite will be relatively light.
5. Infrared spectroscopy analysis.
Infrared spectroscopy is a high-tech identification method that identifies the authenticity of jadeite by analyzing the absorption characteristics of infrared light. The infrared spectral signature of natural jadeite is significantly different from that of synthetic or treated jadeite. This approach requires specialized equipment and trained analysts to carry out.
6. Heating test and vaporization test.
Heating test and vaporization test are effective methods to further verify the authenticity of jadeite. In heating tests, real jadeite was shown to produce a peculiar smell of ash and alumina at high temperatures. The vaporization test is to put the jadeite at high temperature to see if it will gradually vaporize and disappear. True jadeite gradually softens at high temperatures, but does not vaporize completely. It is important to note that these test methods are somewhat destructive and should be handled with caution and ensure safety.
7. Microscopic observation.
Microscopy is an important tool for identifying the microstructure of jadeite. Observing the internal structure of jadeite through a high-powered microscope can reveal that natural jadeite has a unique interwoven structure of fibers, while synthetic jadeite may show different structural characteristics. In addition, observing the microscopic texture of the surface of jadeite can also help identify its authenticity and quality.
To sum up, identifying the authenticity and quality of jadeite requires a comprehensive consideration of a variety of methods. By observing the appearance, testing hardness, ultraviolet fluorescence testing, specific gravity testing, infrared spectroscopy, heating and vaporization testing, and microscopic observation, we can more accurately identify the real jadeite. At the same time, for beginners, it is recommended to practice under the guidance of professionals to ensure the accuracy and safety of the identification results.
In the process of purchasing and identifying jadeite, we also need to pay attention to the following points: First, we must choose a reputable merchant to buy to ensure that the purchase is genuine;Secondly, it is necessary to understand the market and the laws of the market, and avoid buying low-quality or counterfeit productsFinally, it is necessary to continue to learn and practice to improve one's identification skills and knowledge level in order to better appreciate and identify this beautiful jade species.