Frequently asked questions

• Is this nephrite or jadeite jade?

  Jade is a trade name covering two distinct minerals: nephrite (a calcium magnesium iron silicate) and jadeite (a sodium aluminum silicate). Both are monoclinic, both polish well, and both have been called jade for centuries, but they differ in chemistry, toughness, and typical sourcing. Nephrite tends to come from China, Canada (British Columbia), Russia, and New Zealand; jadeite is associated with Burma/Myanmar and Guatemala. The specific species should be disclosed — ask before buying if it isn't specified. For most bead and stringing applications either works similarly, but the distinction matters if a client is asking for a particular material by name.
• What does 'Type B' jadeite mean, and how can I tell if a strand is treated?

  The trade classifies jadeite in three grades by treatment: Type A is untreated (wax surface coating only), Type B has been bleached with acid to remove iron staining and then impregnated with polymer resin to restore structure, and Type C is dyed. Type B material can look bright and translucent but the polymer degrades over years and is sensitive to heat, ultrasonics, and solvents. Nephrite is more often sold natural or dyed than polymer-treated. Treatment should be disclosed — ask before buying if it isn't specified, especially if the piece is for a client who expects untreated material.
• Which stones are sold as 'jade' but aren't actually jade?

  Several look-alikes circulate under jade trade names. 'New Jade' and 'Olive Jade' are usually serpentine, a softer mineral (Mohs 3–6) with a waxier feel. 'African Jade' is typically grossular garnet or a green hydrogrossular. 'Malaysia Jade' and 'Mountain Jade' are dyed quartzite or dolomite marble. Aventurine and chrysoprase get confused with apple-green jadeite. None of these are wrong to use in jewelry, but they're not jade and shouldn't be sold as such. The actual species should be disclosed — ask before buying if it isn't specified.
• What kinds of projects suit jade beads best?

  Jade's Mohs 6–7 hardness and exceptional toughness (especially nephrite, with its felted fiber structure) make it one of the more wear-resistant materials in the bead trade. It handles bracelets, necklaces, and earrings without chipping at the drill holes, and the 6mm/8mm/10mm rounds Dakota stocks most heavily are workhorse sizes for mala-style strands, knotted necklaces, and stacking bracelets. Faceted rounds and microfaceted rounds add sparkle for layered designs. Jade pairs cleanly with gold-fill, sterling, freshwater pearl, and other natural greens — and the muted nephrite tones work well alongside lapis, carnelian, and onyx for Asian-influenced designs.
• How should finished jade jewelry be cared for?

  Untreated nephrite and jadeite are durable enough for daily wear. Clean with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth; rinse and dry thoroughly. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are generally safe for untreated material but should be avoided for Type B (polymer-impregnated) jadeite and for any dyed jade, since solvents, heat, and prolonged UV exposure can fade color or break down resin. Keep jade away from harsh household chemicals, chlorinated water, and perfume sprayed directly onto the piece. Store separately from harder stones like topaz, sapphire, or quartz to prevent surface scratches over time.