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In recent years, the popularity of jade has largely focused on "white jade," which has led to a mixed and confusing market. Especially with the rapid increase in the price of high-grade raw materials from Hotan County, many people have turned to alternatives like Russian or Qinghai jade to pass them off as authentic Xinjiang white jade. In many markets in Shanghai, only about 20% of the white jade sold is genuine, while the remaining 80% are fakes. For beginners, it's best not to rush into the market immediately, as this is one of the most effective ways to avoid falling for counterfeit products. Instead, they should take time to learn more about white jade, study its characteristics, consult experts, and make purchases based on their own financial capabilities. This careful approach often leads to better results.
Additionally, counterfeiting is a common issue in any art market, including the jade industry. Both urban jewelry shops and specialized markets can be affected. If the price isn't artificially inflated, there’s typically a 20–30% margin that allows for some room for imitation. For professional collectors, pricing is usually clear and well-defined.
Since 2010, the white jade market has seen a slight decline compared to its peak in 2009, but it has become more regulated over time. For those who are knowledgeable, prices are now more transparent. However, if you're not familiar with the market, it's easy to end up spending a lot on an expensive piece without getting much value in return—something that was even more common in 2008.
For serious collectors, it's crucial to start by gaining a solid understanding of white jade from the beginning. Only after grasping the basic concepts and accumulating experience over time can one truly distinguish between real and fake pieces, and then make informed decisions for appreciation and long-term value.
Under normal market conditions, the future prospects for quality white jade remain promising.
Qian Zhenfeng, General Manager of the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Service Department, Senior Economist at the US Craftsman Association, and Director of the China Gem Association, recently shared his insights with this reporter regarding the basics of white jade and current hot topics in the market.
"White Jade" Falsification: What Are the Signs?
Author: How is jade categorized?
Qian Zhenfeng: Jade is produced in many countries around the world, but none can match the quality, texture, and cultural significance of Chinese jade. Internationally, jade is divided into two main types: jadeite and nephrite. These differ in mineral composition, physical properties, and hardness.
Soft jade includes white jade, green jade, black jade, jasper, ink jade, topaz, river jade, and more. Other non-jadeite and non-nephrite stones include Dushan jade, Lantian jade, Jiuquan jade, agate, loose ear stone, lapis, malachite, crystal, amber, and coral.
In China and globally, white jade is considered the highest grade of soft jade. It comes from various regions, including Xinjiang, where it is known for its superior quality and limited production. White jade from Russia, Qinghai, and even North Korea also exists in the market.
How to Identify Genuine Xinjiang White Jade
Author: What are the key features to identify the quality of Xinjiang white jade?
Qian Zhenfeng: To evaluate the quality of white jade, one should consider shape, color, texture, and clarity. The most reliable method is to examine the original form and skin color of the stone, distinguishing between seed material, gobi beach material, and mountain stream material. Seed material is generally the most valuable due to its smooth surface, fine texture, and natural weathering effects.
Seed jade, found in riverbeds, tends to be small, smooth, and dense, with a uniform structure. Its surface often shows yellow, red, or black weathering layers, known as "skin." Experts can estimate the internal quality of the jade based on these external features. Pure white seeds, called "light white seeds," are the most desirable, resembling condensed moisture.
There are many types of skin colors, such as "white skin," "black skin (crowskin)," "jujube skin," "tiger skin," and "sugar skin." Among these, "osmanthus flower seed jade" and "jujube red seed jade" are particularly valuable.
Be Aware of Artificial Seeds and Fake Skin Colors
Author: What are the common methods used to create fake white jade?
Qian Zhenfeng: With the rising interest in white jade, the market has seen an increase in fake products. Common tactics include using white marble, glass, or other stones to imitate genuine white jade. Some fakes even use artificial skin coloring to mimic the natural weathered appearance of real jade.
Artificial seed jade is created by cutting and shaping other materials to resemble real seed jade. However, these fakes often lack the natural texture and skin pores that appear after years of river erosion. They tend to look stiff and unnatural.
Artificial skin color is another common fraud technique. By heating jade and soaking it in dyes, counterfeiters attempt to replicate the natural oxidation layer. However, the resulting color is usually too bright or dull, and the cracks caused by heat do not match the natural patterns formed by environmental exposure.
Finally, some sellers use non-soft jade materials, such as quartz or marble, to pass them off as genuine white jade. These fakes are often difficult to detect without expert knowledge.
In conclusion, while the white jade market offers great potential, it also comes with significant risks. For both newcomers and seasoned collectors, education and caution are essential to navigating this complex and ever-evolving field.
September 29, 2025