Jade - colors, types and care

What is jade?

Jade is an umbrella term that mainly covers two minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Both are used in jewellery and carvings, but they have slightly different properties. Jade is often associated with a smoothly polished surface and a dense, compact appearance, which gives the stone its characteristic calm, refined look.

What colour is jade?

Jade is most commonly associated with green, but it can vary more than many people think. The most common colours include:

• light green

• deep green

• grey-green / olive

• white (often called “white jade”)

• grey or beige

More rarely, jade can also appear in lavender/purple, yellow, or almost black—depending on the type and origin.

Is jade transparent?

Jade is typically opaque to slightly translucent. Some jades (especially high-quality jadeite) can look more “alive” and allow a bit more light through at the edges, but in jewellery jade is usually experienced as a smooth stone with depth rather than crystal-clear transparency.

Why does jade look different from stone to stone?

Jade can vary in:

• tone (cool vs. warm green)

• saturation (intense vs. softer/more muted)

• structure (more even vs. natural “clouds” and variations)

That natural variation is part of jade’s charm: it often has an organic, living character that makes each stone unique.

Is jade a genuine stone?

Yes, jade can be completely natural—but because jade is in demand, you may also come across:

• treated jade (to improve clarity or colour)

• dyed jade

• imitations (for example glass or other materials sold as “jade look”)

How is jade used in jewellery?

Jade is often seen in:

• pendants and medallions

• earrings, where it adds a calm colour accent

• rings, where it can feel classic and elegant

• bracelets and beaded necklaces, often in smoothly polished shapes

Jade is frequently cut as a cabochon or shaped into beads, as this best highlights its soft sheen and colour depth.

Which metals suit jade?

Jade works beautifully with both warm and cool metals:

• Gold/gold-plated: brings out warmer undertones and gives a classic, luxurious feel

• Silver: creates a cooler, cleaner look and can make jade feel more modern

Green jade is also easy to pair with neutrals and other stones, as it often acts as a calm, balanced base in styling.

How durable is jade?

Jade is generally a robust stone for jewellery, but it can still get scratches or small marks from hard knocks—especially in rings that may hit edges and surfaces more often. Earrings and necklaces usually experience less wear and tend to stay beautiful longer.

Can jade handle water, soap and perfume?

Jade typically tolerates more than many porous stones, but it’s still best to treat jade jewellery like fine jewellery and avoid excessive contact with:

• cleaning products and strong soaps

• chlorine (swimming pools)

• perfume and hairspray directly on the stone

This protects both the stone’s surface and the metal setting.

How do you clean jade?

Clean jade gently:

• wipe with a soft cloth after wear

• if needed: use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap

• rinse carefully and dry with a soft cloth

Avoid ultrasonic cleaning and harsh chemical cleaners—especially if the jade may be treated.

How should you store jade jewellery?

Store jade separately from other jewellery so the surface doesn’t get scratched. A small pouch or a separate compartment in your jewellery box is ideal.

Why do many people choose jade?

Jade is popular because it:

• has a calm, natural and timeless look

• adds colour without feeling “blingy”

• suits both minimalist and more classic styles

• is easy to wear again and again because it’s simple to match and style