Real VS Fake Jade

With so many fakes in the market how do you determine if the Jade is real or fake? Before we dive right in, let us understand what Fake Jades are. They are often made with glass or plastic & are then dyed to imitate Real Jades. Natural stones such as serpentine or quartzite may also be treated to pass off as Jade. Once they are successfully sold as Jade, they will be able to fetch a higher price than its true value. 

The Colour Test

If the price is low, the colour is vibrant & uniform throughout  high chances it has been dyed. Real Jade usually have a natural looking colour with some inconsistency in the shades & natural inclusions. The more intense the colours the more expensive the jade will be. So if the price does not match the quality/colour high chances it is a Fake.

The Touch Test

Real Jade will feel cold to the touch & after holding it in your palm for a few minutes it should still stay cool. It may warm up after a longer period of time but it will also cool down quickly. Fakes will likely remain warm. 

The Scratch Test

Try scratching the Jade (mohs hardness:6.5-7) with your fingernails (2.5) or a piece of metal (steel:4 & copper/brass:3) & if it leaves a mark it is likely a fake. Real Jade are tough & shouldn't scratch easily. 

The Density Test

Real Jade has a high density & you should feel there is some weight to it. You may try comparing it with another piece of stone to judge how heavy it feels. Fake Jade made from plastic or glass will feel light & hollow because of its density.

The Sound Test

Real Jade when tapped with another piece of Jade will produce a deep, resonant sound if it sounds like plastic beads then it is likely a Fake. While Jade Bangles when tapped against each other produces a high pitch sound. 

Lastly, there should not be any air bubbles if there are high chances it is not natural. These are some tests you can do to tell but of course there are no guarantees. The only way that you would know for certainty is getting it verified at a local gemological laboratory.