Hello everyone, I am Zhang Mingyuan. Having been immersed in the captivating and opportunity-rich jade industry for over thirty years, I have witnessed its ebbs and flows, and personally experienced the birth and circulation of countless treasures. Today, I want to share some of my latest thoughts and unique insights into the current field of jade appraisal and investment, hoping to dispel the fog and guide fellow collectors and investors.

I. Market Trends: From "Jade-Centric" to "Multi-Valued" Transformation

In the past, the mainstream concept in the jade market was "jade-centrism," meaning green was paramount. The ultimate full-green glass-like imperial green jade with exceptional texture, transparency, and craftsmanship was the holy grail coveted by all collectors. However, in recent years, I have observed a significant shift: the market's aesthetic and value judgment of jade are becoming increasingly diversified.

Firstly, high-quality "colorless glass-like" and "ice-like" jade are gaining increasing popularity. These types of jade, with their pure, flawless, and lustrous transparency, exhibit an ultimate understated beauty. Especially under the influence of Western aesthetics, their design sense and artistry are being attributed higher value. For instance, I once participated in appraising a colorless glass-like "ping an kou" (peace buckle) whose purity and gelatinous texture were breathtaking. It ultimately sold for a price far exceeding expectations, which would have been unimaginable a decade ago.

Secondly, the rise of distinctive jade varieties. For example, uniquely colored jade such as lavender, yellow, and red jade, as long as their texture and transparency reach a certain level, are also seeing their market value soar. Particularly those lavender jades with rich, evenly distributed colors, their scarcity and unique charm have made them new market darlings. I once met a collector who, with keen foresight, purchased several high-quality lavender bangles at a low price when the market had not yet fully recognized the value of lavender jade. Today, the market value of these bangles has multiplied several times over. This demonstrates that investment horizons should not be limited to traditional concepts; one must dare to discover and embrace new value points.

II. New Challenges in Appraisal: Technological Empowerment and the "Experience Trap"

With the advancement of technology, methods for enhancing and treating jade have become increasingly subtle, posing new challenges for appraisal. The authenticity of treated jade, such as B-grade, C-grade, and B+C-grade, is becoming increasingly high, and even high-imitation "B+C+D" grade jade has appeared, leaving many inexperienced collectors unprepared.

My view is that, in the face of technology, while traditional "eyeball appraisal" is important, it absolutely cannot be the sole standard. We must embrace technology and utilize professional appraisal instruments, such as infrared spectrometers and Raman spectrometers, to conduct scientific analysis of the internal structure and chemical composition of jade. My appraisal institution has invested heavily in acquiring advanced equipment in recent years and regularly organizes technical training for experts to ensure that our appraisal results remain at the forefront of the industry.

However, over-reliance on technology can also lead to an "experience trap." Some appraisers only look at instrument data but overlook the overall aesthetic appeal, craftsmanship characteristics, and market circulation of the jade. The value of a piece of jade is not merely its physical properties but also includes its cultural connotation, artistic value, and scarcity. Therefore, a true expert is one who can combine scientific instrument analysis with rich practical experience and profound cultural heritage to make comprehensive and precise judgments. I often say that instruments are our eyes, and experience is our wisdom; neither can be dispensed with.

III. Investment Strategy: Returning to Value, Avoiding Blindness

For jade investment, my core advice is: return to value, avoid blindness.

  • Value Investment: Choose high-quality, rare jade. Regardless of market fluctuations, truly good items are always hard currency. "Good" here refers not only to texture, transparency, and color but also to its carving, design sense, and whether it carries unique cultural significance. For example, a jade carving by a renowned artist often has an artistic added value that far exceeds the value of the material itself.


  • Long-Term Holding: The growth in jade value is often a lengthy process. Do not expect short-term riches; instead, adopt a collector's mindset and enjoy the appreciation that comes with time. I once had a client who, ten years ago, purchased an ice-like vibrant green cabochon ring for 500,000 yuan. At the time, the market was not optimistic, but he firmly believed in its quality and has worn it ever since. Today, the market estimate for this ring exceeds 3 million yuan.


  • Risk Control: Diversify investments; do not put all your eggs in one basket. At the same time, maintain a clear understanding of the market and avoid blindly following speculation. Resolutely say no to "conceptual goods" that are overpriced and of questionable quality.


  • Learning and Exchange: Jade knowledge is vast and endless. Learn more, exchange more, attend professional lectures and exhibitions, share experiences with peers and collectors, and continuously improve your appraisal skills and investment acumen.


Summary and Recommendations:

The jade market is undergoing profound changes, with both challenges and opportunities. As investors, we must maintain keen insight, continuously learn new knowledge, and master new skills.

My recommendations are:

  • Enhance Aesthetics: Broaden your horizons, not just limited to traditional green, but also pay attention to the value of colorless and distinctive jade.


  • Scientific Appraisal: Combine technological means with practical experience to identify treated jade and ensure authenticity.


  • Value Investment: Focus on high quality and rarity, adopt a long-term perspective, and avoid short-term speculation.


  • Continuous Learning: Remain humble, keep pace with the times, and let knowledge be your strongest backing.


Jade is a gift from nature and a treasure of Chinese culture. May we all find our own brilliance and value in this beautiful world of jade. Thank you all.