Jade, with its mesmerising shades of green, has always been a stone of desire, admiration, and significance. When it comes to jade, New Zealand offers something extraordinary: Pounamu, also known as NZ greenstone or jade.
But like any precious stone, replicas and less-authentic varieties abound in the market. So, how does one differentiate genuine jade jewellery from the multitude of look-alikes in the local market?
Understanding Pounamu: New Zealand’s Gemstone Treasure
Before diving into identification, it’s essential to grasp what makes NZ jade unique. Unlike jadeite or nephrite found in other parts of the world, Pounamu is deeply entrenched in Maori culture and New Zealand’s geology. This indigenous jade, often imbued with spiritual significance, comes in varying shades of green, each with its distinctive characteristics.
Texture and Temperature: The Feel of Authenticity
Hold a piece of genuine jade adornment in your hand. Now, close your eyes. Does it feel cool to touch? Even after wearing it against your skin, real jade often retains this distinctive coolness. Additionally, natural jade has a smooth and waxy lustre. If it looks too shiny or glass-like, you might be looking at treated or imitation jade.
Density Speaks Volumes
Jade is an exceptionally dense stone. When tapped lightly with another stone or piece of metal, it should produce a subtle, deep sound. Lighter, fake jade pieces might give off a higher-pitched sound akin to glass or plastic.
Spotting Inconsistencies: The Art of Observation
Authentic NZ jade jewellery brands often contain minor imperfections or variations in colour. These slight inconsistencies are nature’s signature, adding to the stone’s charm. In contrast, completely flawless pieces or those with unnaturally bright colours could be chemically treated or fake.
Translucency Tests
While not all genuine jade is translucent, if you’ve got a piece that lets some light through, it’s an excellent test to employ. Hold the jade up to a light source. Genuine jade often showcases a granular, fibrous interlocking pattern inside when light passes through it.
The Price Point: Too Good to Be True?
Authentic jade, especially quality pieces from New Zealand, comes at a price. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. While we all love a bargain, unusually cheap jade might indicate inferior quality or, worse, an imitation.
Ask for Provenance
Genuine sellers often provide information about where the material was sourced, its age, and sometimes even its carver. This information not only guarantees authenticity but also offers a backstory to your precious acquisition.
When in Doubt, Seek Expertise
If you’re unsure about your purchase or a piece you’ve inherited, don’t hesitate to seek out an expert. Gemmologists or jade artisans can often provide insights into a jade item’s authenticity. This is not the time or place to make assumptions if you’re eager to put your money into real material.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Authentic Discovery
Finding authentic jade, especially from New Zealand, can feel like a delightful treasure hunt. By arming yourself with knowledge, paying attention to details, and respecting the intrinsic value of this unique gemstone, you can ensure that what you possess is not just a piece of jewellery but a slice of history, culture, and natural artistry.
After all, true beauty, especially in the realm of gemstones, goes far beyond mere appearances. It lies in authenticity, heritage, and the tales that every genuine piece whispers to those who know how to listen.