Clues are not proof.
Colour, lustre, weight, and a cool feel may raise useful questions. None can reliably prove that an object is nephrite.
“Jade” is not one precise mineral name.
In the trade, “jade” mainly refers to two different materials: nephrite and jadeite. They can look alike, but their mineralogy and measurable properties differ. There are also many jade-like imitations and treated materials.
A fair description therefore starts with more useful questions than “real or fake”: What is the material, has it been treated, and which parts of the description are documented?
What you can notice — and what it cannot prove
Non-destructive observations help you frame questions for a seller. They do not replace gemmological measurements or a laboratory report.
A broad range
Nephrite can be whitish, yellowish, brown, grey, or many shades of green. A “typical green” is not proof of identity.
A clue only
A waxy lustre and fine texture may fit nephrite. Glass, resin, and other minerals can imitate parts of that appearance.
Comparison-dependent
Dense stones often feel heavy and cool. Shape, temperature, setting, and the comparison object make this impression unreliable.
Measurements narrow the possibilities. One result proves little.
GIA gives approximately the following values for nephrite. Natural variation, surface condition, settings, and measurement conditions require professional interpretation.
GIA's typical range for nephrite; a suitable surface and refractometer are required.
A typical reference value. Inclusions, impurities, and the method can affect the result.
Hardness means scratch resistance. Nephrite is also notably tough, but scratch testing is still a poor buying test.
Reliable identification comes from suitable methods used together.
The right examination depends on the object, its surface and setting, and the question that needs answering.
- 01Refractive index (RI)A gemmological refractometer can help separate nephrite from jadeite and many imitations when a suitable measurement is possible.
- 02Specific gravity (SG)A hydrostatic measurement provides a useful supporting value. It should never be interpreted in isolation.
- 03MicroscopyStructure, inclusions, surface features, repairs, and possible coatings can be assessed under magnification.
- 04SpectroscopyDepending on the question, laboratories may use methods such as Raman or FTIR spectroscopy to examine mineral phases or certain treatments.
Do not scratch, heat, strike, or tap the object. These tests can damage the polish, setting, or stone. Imitations may also produce misleading reactions, so the result remains uncertain.
A buyer checklist for nephrite and jade
The higher the price and personal importance of a piece, the more precise its documentation should be.
- Ask for the exact material name: nephrite, jadeite, or only “jade”?
- Ask about treatments: dyeing, impregnation, coating, repair, or unknown?
- Keep measurements, weight, and clear images: front, back, edges, drill holes, and setting.
- Separate levels of provenance: documented, attributed, probable, or unknown.
- Match any laboratory report: do its weight, dimensions, image, and number identify this exact piece?
- Read the return terms: especially when material or treatment has not been independently established.
- Ask for evidence behind premiums: rarity, origin, and untreated status need support.
- Pause when uncertain: a second professional opinion costs less than a bad purchase.
Describe honestly what is known — and what is not.
A plausible story is not presented as documented provenance.
When we refer to laboratory identification, the report must be attributable to the specific object.
Images can prompt questions, but cannot reliably prove mineral identity or treatment.
Read more at GIA
This guide is for consumer information. It is not a remote diagnosis, a laboratory report, or an offer of gemmological certification.