Burmese jade, also known as jadeite, is a highly prized gemstone renowned for its exceptional beauty, durability, and cultural significance. This article delves into the captivating world of Burmese jade colors, exploring their desirability, rarity, and symbolism.
Key Facts
- Green is the most desirable color: Traditionally, jadeite is associated with the color green, and the most valuable Burmese jade is a vibrant and intense shade of green.
- Imperial jade: The finest-quality Burmese jade is known as “Imperial jade.” It is almost transparent with a vivid emerald-green color and is considered one of the most expensive gems in the world.
- Other colors: While green is the most valuable, Burmese jade can also come in other colors such as lavender, red, orange, yellow, brown, white, black, and gray. These colors can be attractive, but green is the most desirable.
- Lavender and other colors: After green, lavender is considered the next most valuable color for Burmese jade. Intense colors generally command a higher premium over lighter and weaker colors. Black jade and orange to reddish jade are also popular, especially when they are not brownish.
Green: The Quintessential Color of Burmese Jade
Green is the quintessential color associated with Burmese jade. This hue is deeply ingrained in the gemstone’s history, tradition, and cultural significance. The most valuable Burmese jade exhibits a vibrant and intense shade of green, often referred to as “Imperial jade.” This exceptional variety is characterized by its exceptional transparency and vivid emerald-green color, making it one of the most expensive gems in the world.
Beyond Green: Exploring Other Colors of Burmese Jade
While green is the most coveted color for Burmese jade, this gemstone can also be found in a captivating array of other colors, including lavender, red, orange, yellow, brown, white, black, and gray. These colors can be equally attractive and desirable, although they generally command lower prices compared to the highly sought-after green variety.
Lavender: A Rare and Valuable Hue
After green, lavender is considered the next most valuable color for Burmese jade. Intense lavender hues command a substantial premium over lighter and weaker colors. This captivating shade is often associated with spirituality, serenity, and inner peace.
Black and Other Colors: Beauty and Symbolism
Black jade is another popular color variety, often symbolizing strength, protection, and grounding. Orange to reddish jade is also gaining popularity, especially when these colors are not brownish. These hues are often associated with joy, cheerfulness, and vitality.
Conclusion
The world of Burmese jade colors is diverse and captivating, offering a wide range of hues, each with its own unique beauty and significance. While green remains the most desirable color, other colors such as lavender, black, and orange to reddish jade are also highly prized for their rarity, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal.
References
- Gemological Institute of America. (n.d.). Jade Quality Factors. Retrieved from https://www.gia.edu/jade-quality-factor
- Jade Hunt. (n.d.). Jade Color: The Different Colors and Their Benefits. Retrieved from https://www.jadehunt.com/jade-knowledge/jade-color/
- International Gem Society. (n.d.). Jadeite Jewelry and Gemstone Information. Retrieved from https://www.gemsociety.org/article/jadeite-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/
FAQs
What is the most desirable color for Burmese jade?
The most desirable color for Burmese jade is a vibrant and intense shade of green, often referred to as “Imperial jade.”
What other colors can Burmese jade be found in?
Burmese jade can be found in a variety of colors, including lavender, red, orange, yellow, brown, white, black, and gray.
Which color is considered the next most valuable after green?
Lavender is considered the next most valuable color for Burmese jade after green.
What is the significance of black jade?
Black jade is often associated with strength, protection, and grounding.
What colors of Burmese jade are gaining popularity?
Orange to reddish jade is gaining popularity, especially when these colors are not brownish.
What is the symbolism associated with orange to reddish jade?
Orange to reddish jade is often associated with joy, cheerfulness, and vitality.
Is Burmese jade always green?
No, Burmese jade can be found in a variety of colors, with green being the most desirable.
What factors influence the value of Burmese jade?
The value of Burmese jade is influenced by several factors, including color, transparency, texture, and size.