Exotic Gems, Volume 4
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Buying jade is a challenge because its value can vary significantly depending on its quality and treatment status. Moreover, fake jade is prevalent in the marketplace. Exotic Gems, Volume 4 describes with text and photos how to evaluate jade quality, as well as detect imitations and dyed jade. The guide also illustrates advanced detection techniques, and compares price factors and characteristics of jadeite and nephrite jade. Abalone pearls are also covered, with tips on how to identify and evaluate them. This is the fourth in a series of books that explores the history, properties, qualities and geographic sources of exotic gems. If you’re interested in jade or abalone pearls, Exotic Gems, Volume 4 can provide you with the in-depth information you’ll need to be a smart buyer and seller. ,- Contents
1. Why is Jade so Prized? 9
What Makes Jade Special? 9
2. What is Jade? 13
Is the Omphacite/Kosmochlor Jade Issue Relevant? 17
Caring for Jade 17
3. Jadeite or Nephrite Jade? 18
Jadeite and Nephrite Jade Localities 22
Basic Gemological Tools for Identifying Jade 23
Advanced Gem Instruments for Identifying Jade 25
4. Imitation or Real Jade? 30
Jade Imitations and Look-a-likes 30
Clues Lay People Can Use to Help Detect Fake Jade 41
5. Treated or Untreated? 43
Jade Treatments 43
Clues Lay People Can Use to Help Detect Treated Jade 47
Advanced Tools for Detecting Jade Treatments 50
6. Jadeite & Nephrite Price Factors 56
Price Factors for Jadeite Jewelry 56
Jadeite Price Factors Explained 57
Transparency 57
Color 59
Clarity (Purity) 62
Cutting Style & Shape 62
Cut Quality (Craftsmanship) 63
Carat Weight & Size 63
Some Jade Jewelry Auction Sales by Bonhams 64
Treatment Status 67
Texture 67
Nephrite Price Factors 67
7. Chinese Jade 71
Jade from China 71
Chinese Jade Trade 73
8. Burmese Jadeite 78
A Brief History of Burmese Jadeite 84
9. Guatemalan Jade 85
10. Canadian Jade 91
How a Master Carver Carves Canadian Jade 95
A Brief History of Canadian Jade 99
11. USA Jade 100
Alaska Jade 100
California Jade 101
Wyoming Jade 104
How a Master Carver Carves Wyoming Black Jade 108
A Word from a Master Carver about Wyoming Black Jade 109
12. Jade from Other Sources 110
Russian Jade 110
New Zealand Jade 112
Australian Jade 113
South Korea Jade 114
Swiss Jade 115
Taiwanese Jade 115
Turkish Jade 116
13. Abalone Pearls 117
How a Cornucopia Pearl Brought Overflowing Abundance 118
North American Abalone Pearls 120
New Zealand Paua Pearls 122
Paua (Abalone) Mabe Pearl Cultivation 123
Identifying Characteristics of Abalone Pearls 124
Abalone Pearl Price Factors 127
Caring for Abalone Pearls 130
Bibliography 131
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