Antique jade is one of the most beautiful, interesting, and valuable antique collectibles. But because demand is rising and there are so many fake antiques, it’s more important than ever to know how to tell real antique jade from fake jade and what its true value is.

There are a lot of treated stones and modern jade copies that look real at first. Many people buy or try to sell antique jade without knowing that their piece could be improved, changed, or even replaced with a stone that isn’t jade. This confusion often leads to missed chances, sales that are worth less than they should be, or frustration.

This guide will help you feel sure about your ability to deal with jade.

How do I know if my old jade is real?

To tell if jade is real, you should first look at its natural features. Real jade, both jadeite and nephrite, has a cool, smooth surface and feels heavier than you would expect for its size. When you look at real jade in the light, you can see soft, fibrous patterns or natural inclusions. Imitations, on the other hand, look perfectly clear and glassy.

Antique jade is also very well made. Older pieces usually have hand-carved details, small flaws, and traditional designs. Modern machine-cut designs often don’t have much depth or personality.

The best way to make sure something is real is to have a professional check it out. Certified jade appraisers use tools and tests to find out if your piece is natural, untreated, and really old. You must do this step before you buy, collect, or sell antique jade.

What makes old jade worth so much?

The value of antique jade depends on a number of things. The most important ones are:

• Jade Type: Jadeite is usually worth more than nephrite.
• Color: Bright colors like imperial green, lavender, and pure white cost more.
• Translucency: The more light it lets through, the better it looks.
• Craftsmanship: Detailed carving, symbolic patterns, and styles from the past all add value.
• Age and origin: Jade from historic eras or with a known origin is very valuable.

Knowing these things will help you figure out how much your piece is worth and make sure you don’t sell it for less than it’s worth when you decide to sell antique jade.

What is the difference between nephrite and jadeite?

Both jadeite and nephrite are types of jade, but they are different in terms of their chemical makeup, how rare they are, and how much they are worth:

Jadeite is harder, denser, and comes in more vivid colors. It is less common and usually more valuable.

Nephrite is softer and smoother, and it usually comes in creamy white, green, or brownish colors. In the past, it was used to make tools, carvings, and decorations.

It’s important to know what kind you have because it affects how much your appraisal and selling price are.

Where can I get the most money for my old jade?

Always choose trusted jade experts or experienced antique buyers to get the best deal. Good buyers know a lot about jade, like how it is carved, what color it is, and its history. This makes sure that the prices are correct and that the sale goes smoothly.

Stay away from random online marketplaces or dealers who don’t know what they’re doing and might not give you a fair price for your item. When you’re ready to sell your old jade, look for experts who will give you a free estimate, be open about their prices, and make you a fair offer based on what the market wants.

Last thought

Antique jade is not just a stone, it is the piece of art and culture. Learn about the real antique jade, and what affects it’s valule, and consult with the expert to sell antique jade for the best price. You can keep yourself safe from fakes attention, and make sure you get the real value of your piece if you know what to look for.