Types of Jade Grading

To the average person it is near impossible to spot the difference between natural and treated jadeite. Experienced jade cutters can tell the difference because of the slight change in weight as treated jade is infused with polymer resin which is lighter than its original form. Even so, this examination by touch is not 100% guaranteed and often for valuable jadeite items it is safer to have it certified at the gemstone laboratory. The certification of jadeite is divided into three categories: Type A, Type B and Type C.

A GRADE

Type A Jadeite is natural jadeite that has not undergone any treatment process to enhance its durability and beauty.

B GRADE

Type B Jadeite has undergone a bleaching process to clean the inside of impurities and inferior color. The texture of jadeite is thus damaged during the process, leaving voids and gaps which are filled with a type of clear polymer resin and then lacquered.