Method and identification of artificial color change of jadeite
Jiangyin Suofei Electronic Technology Co.,Ltd. , https://www.suofeiscales.com
August 07 06:13:55, 2025
In today's jade market, fakes are rampant, which can be very confusing for buyers. One of the most common forms of fraud is dyeing, where unscrupulous sellers pass off low-quality jade as genuine to make a profit. There are two main types of artificial dyeing: one involves coloring white jade with green or violet-blue hues, while the other enhances the natural pale green of emerald-like jade to make it more visually appealing. This type of jade is commonly referred to as "Jade C." The color is fake, and often, it's not just the color that's altered — the transparency and clarity may also be artificially enhanced through processes like acid treatment, gluing, and dyeing. Dyed jade can come in various colors, including green, purple, and yellow.
Artificial color enhancement can be achieved through three primary methods. The first involves using organic dyes, the second includes coating, heat treatment, or electroplating, and the third method uses high-energy particle bombardment. While these techniques vary, they all aim to alter the appearance of the jade to mimic natural beauty.
The first two methods often result in similar characteristics. The dyed color tends to sit on the surface, appearing either yellowish or bluish, which is why it's sometimes called "evil color." When examined under a magnifying glass, the dye can be seen accumulating in the fine cracks between the jade particles. Identifying light green jade with minimal artificial color requires careful attention, as it can be quite challenging to distinguish without close inspection.
For jade that has been treated with high-energy particles, the color tends to be more uniform and deeper. According to some experts, when such jade is cut, the green color around the outer layer appears in ring-shaped or patch-like patterns. The surface may show signs of "bombardment," and the color tends to be darker in those areas compared to the rest of the stone.
One of the most effective tools for identifying dyed jade is the Chelsea filter. This device allows yellow-green and deep red light to pass through. Natural green jade typically reflects both green and yellow-green wavelengths. Under the filter, it appears yellow-green. However, dyed jade absorbs the green portion of the spectrum and allows more deep red light to pass through, making it appear red under the filter. So far, no naturally occurring green jade has shown a red hue under the filter.
It's important to use the Chelsea filter correctly. The best results are obtained under normal daylight, as strong light sources like high-power bulbs can reduce the visibility of the red color. If possible, transmitted light should be used for better accuracy. In addition, using a spectroscope can help confirm the findings. Naturally occurring green jade usually shows three distinct red lines at 630 nm and around 690 nm. Dyed jade, on the other hand, displays a more blurred band.