Get a free estimate of your Chinese jades

You own a Chinese jade and you wish to submit this piece to an expert evaluation in order to know its history and value?

This precious mineral is rooted in a deep and complex history of Chinese civilization, where mysterious convictions and refined artistic developments are combined. What secrets and mysterious appeal lie behind this finely cut creation? How can we identify and value this singular work of art? Auctie's auction house explores the world of Chinese jade in detail and unveils its mysteries.

Why is jade so sought-after?

Jade (nephrite), the most prized stone in China, symbolized purity and moral virtue. Appreciated for its strength and mystical properties, this stone was carefully cut and polished to create various objects, from ornaments to decorative elements. Jade was especially used to make ritual objects such as the bi disc and Cong tubes, and then jade making turned to the manufacture of jewelry and precious ornaments. Jade has an important place in Chinese culture and history. 

Where does jade come from and how is it worked?

Extracted from mountains and river beds. The main sources were in Xinjiang and Khotan in Central Asia. Used as early as 6000 BC in a crude way, jade began to be shaped as early as 3500 BC. Jade was shaped with a rope and abrasive sand, then carved with a drill and polished. The difficulty of working with it and the increasing sophistication of the patterns enhanced its value over time. 

What are the most sought after colors on the market?

In the market, the most sought after colors of jade have evolved over time. First, green jade was very popular until the 5th and 4th centuries BC. Then the trend turned to white jade tinged with brown, and then pure white jade became fashionable in the 1st century BC with the expansion of the Han Dynasty. Pure white jade, considered the rarest and most precious, was exclusively reserved for emperors. A hierarchy of jades determined the shades that members of the imperial court could wear, white being the emperor's prerogative. The trade and use of jade was strictly regulated, and jades were patterned and shaped according to specific codes of interpretation. Jade belt pendants, which produced a soft, muted sound, were considered protective and soothing.

What type of jade are collectors looking for in the market?

Over the centuries, the demand for different colors of jade has continued to evolve, depending on tastes and cultural trends. However, the value of jade has always been linked to its rarity, beauty and symbolism. Jade objects, whether pendants, ornaments or ritual objects, have continued to be highly sought after in the market because of their unique aesthetics and deep cultural significance.

Today, collectors and art lovers are always interested in the different shades of jade, whether it is the classic green, pure white or other less common variations. The quality and origin of the stone are key factors in assessing its value on the market. Old and rare pieces, especially those associated with Chinese imperial history, continue to attract buyers' attention and interest at auctions and exhibitions.

Also, jades with color imperfections are equally sought after. They can indeed give information on the age of the stone and its origin. 

Some examples of prices of Chinese jade pieces?

How do I know the precise value of my jades?

It is important to have your Chinese jades appraised by Auctie's auctioneers to get an accurate assessment of their price. Auctioneers have extensive expertise in the art market and can provide advice on the sale of Chinese jades.

Their evaluation is impartial and based on objective criteria. Having your Chinese jades appraised by Auctie's auctioneers is therefore a safe and reliable way to obtain an accurate assessment of the value of these precious works of art.