Jadeite has always been highly valued by the Chinese people. While we commonly deal with finished jade products, there's a unique and intriguing trading method in the jade market known as "gambling stone" trading. This practice is filled with mystery and excitement, but it's not just about luck. In fact, gambling stones involve an experience, a sense of judgment, and a bit of fortune. Below are some essential insights into jade gambling stones.
The jade found in Myanmar often appears thin with visible green patches but can have many cracks. There are two types of Houjiangyu: old Houjiang and new Houjiang. Both are riverbed sediments, but the old Houjiang has higher density and hardness, causing it to settle at the bottom of the riverbed. New Houjiang, on the other hand, is found in the lower sediment layers and tends to be larger in size. Old Houjiang jade is typically greener and more vibrant than the raw material, while new Houjiang may have good color that fades after processing. Another example is black-skinned sand jade, which is only valuable when the green is concentrated and large. If the green is scattered, the bottom should be used to enhance the appearance. The quality of jade varies greatly depending on where it comes from, so the identification methods also differ. When purchasing raw materials, it's crucial to understand the characteristics of each origin.
For instance, Houjiang jade is best when the color is small and the water (transparency) is good. Avoid buying this type if the green is too light or the base is grayish brown, as it can ruin the overall look. Similarly, gray card jade might have a small area with excellent water, but the rest may be dull. It's important to pay attention to the entire piece rather than just one part. There are nearly 25 production sites in the Myanmar jade mines, and understanding these differences is key when buying raw materials—like a duck that knows exactly where to go.
When selecting jadeite, look for pieces with noticeable color variations on the surface, such as black lines or patches, or those with moss-like patterns and skin. These signs suggest there is green inside the stone. Also, check for a clean base and minimal cracks.
Some green jade, when exposed to a strong flashlight, allows light to penetrate several centimeters deep, appearing clear and beautiful. However, if this material is used for thin jewelry like rings or pendants, the green color may appear lighter, even turning blue or colorless. Such jade is usually expensive, so when choosing for jewelry, it's better to select stones with pure, bright color and no impurities. The light should penetrate about 0.5 to 1 cm. The thickness of the finished product can help control how deep the green color appears. If the jade is very transparent, it's ideal for creating high-quality, premium crafts based on its color.
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