Type A jadeite refers to natural, untreated jadeite that has not been subjected to any form of chemical treatment or artificial dyeing. The physical attributes of Type A jadeite include:
Hardness:
Jadeite is one of the hardest minerals in the world, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7. This means it is extremely resistant to scratches and can withstand everyday wear and tear. In fact, it is even harder than steel! Its hardness makes it a popular gemstone for use in jewelry and decorative objects.
Type A jadeite is found in a wide range of colors, but the most valuable and sought-after color is a vivid, bright green, known as "imperial green." This color is highly prized for its intense saturation, brightness, and evenness. Other colors of jadeite can include lavender, white, yellow, black, and red. In addition to color, the quality of the jadeite is also determined by factors such as clarity, texture, and translucency.
Transparency:
Type A jadeite can be either opaque or translucent, depending on the quality of the stone. The most valuable pieces are often translucent, allowing light to pass through and giving the stone a luminous quality. The finest examples of translucent jadeite are highly prized by collectors and can command very high prices.
Jadeite has a fine, smooth texture that is often described as "buttery." This texture is the result of the stone's tightly packed mineral structure. The texture can vary depending on the quality of the stone, with the finest examples having a smooth, even texture with no visible blemishes or flaws.
Density:
Type A jadeite is a very dense stone, with a specific gravity of around 3.3-3.5. This density gives the stone a pleasing weight and heft, which is highly valued in jewelry and decorative objects. The density also makes the stone very durable and resistant to damage, ensuring that it will last for generations.
Refractive Index:
The refractive index of Type A jadeite ranges from 1.66 to 1.67. The refractive index is a measure of how much a material can bend light as it passes through it. This property is important in gemstone identification because it can help distinguish one type of stone from another. The refractive index of Type A jadeite is relatively high, which contributes to its high luster and brilliance.
Overall, Type A jadeite is prized for its beauty, durability, and rarity, and is considered one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.
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