Jade, encompassing jadeite and nephrite, has been treasured for its beauty and cultural significance. Distinguishing genuine jade involves examining its color, texture, translucency, weight, and sound. Key methods for testing authenticity include scratch, refractive index, and density tests. Common imitations and treatments include dyeing and polymer injection. Understanding these traits enhances appreciation of jade’s value and beauty.
The “Jade Hair Test,” a popular yet scientifically invalid method for authenticating jade on social media, falsely claims hair won’t burn when wrapped around real jade. This unreliable test ignores proper techniques like infrared spectroscopy, leading many to mistakenly believe they own authentic jade. Authentic assessments should be left to trained gemologists. An upcoming course offers accurate jade identification education.