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Composition
A mineral composed of sodium, aluminum and silicon with interwoven crystals, imperial jade contains a small amount of chromium, which results in an intense green color.
Desirability
Imperial jade is especially desirable to knowledgeable buyers. White jade is commonly dyed to the color of imperial jade or other preferred shades. Unscrupulous dealers then sell the stones for higher prices. The imitation color will not permeate evenly through the stone, which an examination with a jeweler's loupe will reveal.
Geographical Distribution
The source of the best imperial jade is Upper Myanmar (Burma), near Tawmaw and Hpakon. China, Russia and Guatemala also have some deposits. Jadeite is found only in weathered rocks containing nodules of serpentinite, a mineral formed by high pressure but not high temperature. Stream deposits and glacial sediments are areas that may have jadeite deposits.
History
The history and use of jade by humans goes back 7,000 years, although it was not until the early 19th century that mineralogists differentiated between jadeite and nephrite. Ancient cultures in Central America, New Zealand and Asia used jade to make weapons, tools and figurines. Jade attained its highest value in China. The most precious stones were used to make the finest objects, figurines and grave furnishings for the imperial family.
Value and Price
Color, color intensity, color distribution, clarity, transparency and texture are qualities that determine the value of the stone. Imperial jade with a deep color that shines through at the edges commands the highest prices. Matched stones can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.