HOW TO CHOOSE

A stone for a ring should be larger than 10 x 8 millimeters (0.39 x 0.31 inches), or about 3 carats. For jewelry quality, choosing a large stone with high transparency is another option. Prices of jadeite have soared since the end of World War II, with some pieces rising several dozens of times in price. Prices have now settled at high levels, with demand exceeding production. Jadeite has become a truly rare gemstone, and indications are that demand will continue to increase in the future. In Taiwan, deep-colored material is preferred, while in Singapore and Malaysia it appears that slightly lighter colors are more popular. In either case, the key to selecting jadeite is a high level of transparency and a fine shape and appearance.

The value of a three-carat-size jadeite of jewelry quality is approximately US $3,000 for the stone alone (2004).