The word "jade" oozes a sense of mystery. In Chinese, "jade"
(yu) refers to a fine, beautiful semi-stone with a rich luster that
is skillfully and delicately carved.
In Chinese culture, jade symbolizes noble virtues, perfection,
constancy and immortality. For millennia, jade has been an intimate
part of the lives of Chinese of all ranks and classes. Jade is
found in mountains and riverbeds, and Chinese consider it to be
"the essence of heaven and earth", the most valuable of all
precious stones.
"The limited jade resources and growing demand in the market
have driven up the prices. The gemstone has almost become the
'crazy stone'," says Xu Shugui, a cultural heritage appraiser.
"The high profits have tempted some craftsmen to make fakes
which are widespread in small-scale, low-end jade markets across
the country," Xu says.
Experts in jade collection, testing and appraisal have offered
some useful tips for those interested in collecting jade items.
Liang Xiuwei, a veteran jade connoisseur in Beijing, suggests
that a potential investor should be able to spot the differences in
patterns, motifs, and jade artisanship, before spending any
money.
"A good jade collector should become a researcher. If you only
care about the changing prices, you will never be a successful
collector because profits will blind you to imitations," says
Liang, who has written several books about the precious
gemstone.
Chen Wei, a jade dealer in Panjiayuan Antique Market of Beijing,
says that an experienced jade buyer should become acquainted with
real, quality jade works. "Visit jade exhibitions and auction
previews. Even if you can't get your hands on them, watch them
closely and carefully. You will soon be able to determine what is
real and what is fake," Chen says.
"Always consult with experts. But don't always follow what they
tell you. Their conclusions should only be reference points," says
Liu Xinliang, a jade collector for 10 years and editor-in-chief of
China Art Market magazine.
"Sometimes, nobody can be sure if a certain jade piece is
authentic, especially when it comes to figuring out which era the
jade has come from. So, sharpen your mind and eyes, and trust your
own judgment."
It is useful to learn more about how fake and imitation jade is
made. However, manufacturers are also improving their techniques,
warns Gao Shan, an expert with the Beijing Dida Gem Testing
Center.
"It's like the viruses that damage computers. The anti-virus
software makers are always following the trends created by the
hackers and programmers," says Gao.
"The simplest method to reduce your risks in jade collection is
to buy only at big shops which value their credibility, and always
ask for a certificate from a State-authorized gem testing agency,"
Gao says.
(China Daily November 8, 2007)