Jadeite Meaning (Feicui): Symbolism, Grade A vs B/C, and Buddha Pendants
Jadeite meaning: Jadeite is a rare and valuable mineral, known in Chinese gemology as feicui (翡翠) and distinct from nephrite jade. It is prized for its bright colours, translucency, and cultural symbolism. In jewellery, “Grade A jadeite” means natural and untreated, making it especially valued for purity and durability.
This guide explains jadeite clearly: mineralogy, history, symbolism, Guatemala vs Burma origins, certificates (especially NGTC), buying tips, care, and Buddha pendant meaning.
Jump to sections
- Jadeite vs Nephrite vs Feicui (Mineralogy)
- Origins: Burma & Guatemala
- History, Legends & Empress Cixi
- Grades A/B/C (Treatments)
- Certificates: NGTC vs GIA
- Jadeite Meaning & Colour Symbolism
- Jade Buddha Pendant Meaning
- Buying Confidently (Spotting Real Jadeite)
- Care & Longevity
- Today’s Market, Ethics & Trends
- FAQs
- Related Reading & Collections
Jadeite vs Nephrite vs Feicui (Mineralogy)
- Jadeite (Feicui): pyroxene group, granular crystals, hardness 6.5–7 (Mohs); allows vivid colour and translucency.
- Nephrite: amphibole group (actinolite–tremolite), fibrous interlocking crystals, hardness 6–6.5; tougher but less translucent.
- Feicui: modern Chinese trade term for jadeite jade; legally distinct from nephrite (yu / Hetian).
Key point: nephrite is tougher; jadeite is harder and more brilliant. This structure explains jadeite’s sharp colour and higher jewellery value.
Origins: Burma & Guatemala
Myanmar (Burma) is the historic benchmark for imperial green jadeite — famed for rich saturation and glow.
Guatemala is the other major source of gem-quality jadeite. The Mayans and Olmecs carved Guatemalan jadeite into masks and beads over 3,000 years ago. Rediscovered in the 20th century, Guatemalan jadeite appears in fresh apple greens, lilac/lavender, white and rare black. With independent certification, Guatemalan jadeite is authentic, durable, and highly collectible — typically more accessible than top Burmese but deeply meaningful and beautiful.
Smaller deposits exist in Japan and Russia for collectors.
History, Legends & Empress Cixi
- Confucian virtues: “Jade is smooth like benevolence; firm like righteousness; sharp but not injurious like courage; flawed yet complete like loyalty.”
- Jade burial suits: Han elite were interred in suits of jade plates sewn with gold thread for protection.
- Empress Dowager Cixi: renowned for her jadeite bangles and courtly taste.
- Auction records: the Hutton–Mdivani imperial green jadeite necklace sold for >$27m.
Jadeite Grades A/B/C (Treatments)
| Grade | Treatment | Notes | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Natural; polished & waxed only | Stable, most respected | Highest |
| B | Bleached + polymer filled | Looks clearer; less durable | Lower |
| C | Dyed (often B-treated too) | Colour may fade; unstable | Lowest |
Less common enhancements: heat and surface coatings; aggressive re-polishing can affect lustre. Always confirm treatment status.
Certificates: NGTC vs GIA (Trust)
- NGTC (China’s National Gem Testing Center): the leading authority for jadeite in Asian markets. Reports include photos and QR verification.
- GIA: globally recognised and trusted for identification and treatment disclosure.
Check that the certificate states: material (jadeite vs nephrite) and treatment (A/B/C). Be cautious of vague shop “certificates”.
Example certificate: every jadeite pendant we sell includes independent lab testing for authenticity and treatment status.
Jadeite Meaning & Colour Symbolism
Chinese tradition: protection, prosperity, harmony, and moral virtue. Burmese perspective: rarity and status. Western view: calm, balance, and heart-based wellbeing.
| Colour | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Vitality, prosperity, growth |
| White | Purity, clarity, peace |
| Lavender | Spiritual reflection, serenity |
| Yellow | Optimism, abundance, joy |
| Black | Protection, grounding, strength |
Explore more meaningful designs in our Symbolic Jewellery collection
Jade Buddha Pendant Meaning
- Green Buddha: harmony & prosperity
- White Buddha: clarity & peace
- Lavender Buddha: serenity & spiritual reflection
- Yellow Buddha: joy & confidence
- Black Buddha: protection & resilience
The Laughing Buddha symbolises joy, generosity and resilience — a daily reminder of optimism.
Our certified Grade A Guatemalan jadeite Buddha pendant is carved in soft green jadeite and supplied with an independent lab certificate for authenticity. Each piece carries both cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a meaningful jewel for daily wear or gifting. View the Jadeite Buddha Pendant →
Buying Confidently (Spotting Real Jadeite)
- Ask first: Is it jadeite or nephrite? Is it Grade A?
- Certificate: NGTC or GIA report with verifiable number.
- Sensory clues: cool to the touch; bell-like ring when tapped; dense, smooth feel; soft internal glow.
- Avoid pitfalls: dyed (Grade C) or polymer-filled (Grade B) sold as “natural”.
Care & Longevity
- Warm soapy water and a soft cloth; dry gently.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, sudden heat.
- Store separately to prevent scratches.
- Regular wear can enhance lustre as skin oils build a soft sheen.
See: Jewellery Care Guide
Today’s Market, Ethics & Trends
- Auctions: imperial green jadeite achieves record prices.
- Ethics: Burmese mining has faced environmental and labour concerns; choose transparent sourcing and trusted lab reports.
- Guatemala: revival of authentic, culturally significant jadeite across a wide colour palette.
- Compare: emerald is vivid but fragile; jadeite is tougher and culturally unrivalled in Asia.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Jadeite
1. What is jadeite? ▼
Jadeite is a rare pyroxene mineral, known in Chinese gemology as feicui (翡翠). It is distinct from nephrite jade and is prized for its vivid colours, translucency, and cultural symbolism.
2. What does Grade A jadeite mean? ▼
Grade A jadeite is natural and untreated, only polished with wax. Grade B jadeite has been bleached and filled with resin, while Grade C jadeite has added dyes. Grade A is the most valuable and stable.
3. How can I tell if jadeite is real? ▼
Authentic jadeite feels cool to the touch, has a smooth and dense texture, and shows natural variations in colour. The safest way to confirm authenticity is with certification from trusted labs such as NGTC or GIA.
4. What is the spiritual meaning of jadeite? ▼
In Chinese culture, jadeite symbolises protection, prosperity, and virtue. In Western beliefs, it is linked to harmony, healing, and the heart chakra, promoting balance and compassion.
5. What does a jade Buddha pendant represent? ▼
A jade Buddha pendant symbolises peace, protection, and spiritual wisdom. The combination of jade’s protective qualities with the Buddha’s teachings makes it a meaningful talisman for harmony and good fortune.
6. Is Guatemalan jadeite real jadeite? ▼
Yes. Guatemalan jadeite is authentic jadeite with a history going back to the Mayans and Olmecs. Today it is fully natural and, with proper certification, trusted as genuine jadeite jewellery.
7. Which certificate should I trust (NGTC vs GIA)? ▼
NGTC (China’s National Gem Testing Center) is the leading authority in Asia for jadeite, while GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is internationally recognised. Both confirm whether jadeite is natural and untreated (Grade A).
8. Is jadeite a good investment? ▼
High-quality Grade A jadeite, especially vivid imperial green with translucency, is among the most valuable gemstones and can hold or increase in value over time.
9. What are common jadeite treatments? ▼
The most common treatments are bleaching and polymer filling (Grade B) and dyeing (Grade C). Less common enhancements include heat treatment and surface coatings. Only Grade A jadeite is natural and untreated.
10. How does jadeite compare with emerald or other green gemstones? ▼
Emerald is vivid but fragile, often with fractures, while jadeite is tougher and more durable. Unlike peridot or tourmaline, jadeite holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in Asia, making it unique among green gemstones.