Hello everyone, I am Zhang Mingyuan. Having been immersed in the jade industry for over thirty years, particularly in the field of jadeite, I have witnessed its ups and downs, its ebbs and flows. Today, I want to share some of my latest thoughts and unique insights into current jadeite appraisal and investment, hoping to provide valuable references for collectors, investors, and enthusiasts alike.

I. The New Normal Amidst Market Changes: From "Jadeite is the Sole Treasure" to "Diverse Value"

In the past, the jadeite market primarily focused on "jadeite as the sole treasure." High-ice, glass-like, and imperial green jadeites were the coveted highlights, with prices soaring. However, in recent years, with changes in the global economic landscape, diversification of consumer aesthetics, and increased information transparency, the jadeite market is undergoing a profound transformation.

Firstly, there's a rational return for "sky-high priced jadeite." While top-tier jadeite, once fetching tens or hundreds of millions, remains rare, its price appreciation has stabilized, and in some cases, even experienced corrections. This doesn't mean that top-tier jadeite has lost its value, but rather that the market's tolerance for prices and expectations for investment returns have become more rational.

Secondly, mid-to-high-end jadeite is on the rise. Jadeites with excellent texture, translucency, and color, but not yet reaching "sky-high" prices, such as high-glutinous ice, ice-glutinous, and some unique colors (like sky blue, ocean blue, lavender), are gradually becoming the market's mainstream. They combine aesthetic appeal, rarity, and relatively affordable prices, better meeting current public consumption and investment demands.

Finally, cultural and artistic values are becoming more prominent. Nowadays, when people purchase jadeite, in addition to its material value, they increasingly focus on its cultural connotations, carving craftsmanship, and the designer's creativity. A meticulously carved jadeite piece with auspicious symbolism and unique artistry, even if its material is not top-tier, can possess significant artistic and collection value.

II. New Appraisal Thinking: From "Emphasis on Texture and Color" to "Comprehensive Evaluation"

In the new market normal, traditional appraisal methods that solely "emphasize texture and color" are no longer sufficient to meet complex market demands. As professional appraisers and investors, we need to establish a new appraisal mindset of "comprehensive evaluation."

  • Texture, Translucency, and Color Remain the Cornerstone: Undoubtedly, texture, translucency, and color are still core elements in assessing jadeite value. Jadeite with old texture, ample translucency, and pure color remains highly valued. However, we need to differentiate more finely. For example, with the same texture and translucency, subtle differences in color tone, such as vibrant green versus yellowish green, can lead to significant value disparities.


  • Craftsmanship Value Cannot Be Overlooked: A good jadeite piece is inseparable from exquisite carving. Skilled craftsmanship can transform ordinary material into something extraordinary, enhancing the jadeite's artistic and aesthetic value. I have seen many jadeite pieces with average material but whose value soared due to exquisite carving. Therefore, in appraisal, we must consider the carving, including the subject matter, the fluidity of lines, the handling of details, and the overall artistic conception.


  • Design Philosophy and Cultural Connotations: Modern jadeite works increasingly emphasize design and cultural connotations. Designs that incorporate modern aesthetic elements or traditional cultural essence can imbue jadeite with deeper value. For example, a jadeite pendant that combines traditional Zen aesthetics with modern minimalist style might have a design value far exceeding its material value.


  • Dialectical View of Flaws: Any natural jadeite may have flaws. The key is how to view them dialectically. Small cotton-like inclusions or stone lines that do not affect aesthetics or durability are acceptable. However, obvious cracks, black spots, or dirty colors will significantly reduce its value. At the same time, be wary of some merchants who use flaws for "clever carving," subtly integrating them into the design. While this is a clever way of handling them, the essence of the "flaw" remains unchanged.


III. New Investment Strategy: From "Blindly Chasing Highs" to "Value Discovery"

In terms of investment, I advise everyone to abandon the old concept of "blindly chasing highs" and instead adopt a new strategy of "value discovery."

  • Focus on Mid-to-High-End Fine Products: As mentioned earlier, mid-to-high-end jadeite is the current mainstream and the sector with the most investment potential. Such jadeite has good market liquidity and a certain degree of rarity, with relatively stable prices and significant room for appreciation.


  • Explore Unique Material Types: Besides traditional green jadeite, some unique material types such as lavender, ocean blue, sky blue, and yellow jadeite, if they possess excellent texture, translucency, and color, also hold high collection and investment value. Especially those unique materials with pure and evenly distributed colors are expected to become new market hotspots in the future.


  • Emphasize Craftsmanship and Design: Investing in jadeite is not just investing in a stone, but investing in a work of art. Choosing jadeite pieces with exquisite carving, unique design, and rich cultural connotations will bring higher investment returns due to their artistic added value.


  • Focus on Brand and Reputation: In the mixed jadeite market, choosing merchants with good brand reputation and professional appraisal capabilities is crucial. They can provide more reliable sources and professional services, reducing investment risks.


  • Continuous Learning and Exchange: The jadeite market is constantly changing. As an investor, one must maintain a continuous learning attitude, keeping abreast of the latest market trends, appraisal techniques, and aesthetic trends. Engage more with industry experts, attend professional appreciation events and exhibitions to broaden horizons and enhance appraisal skills.


IV. Case Study: The Comeback of an Ice-Glutinous Lavender Bangle

I once met a collector who, years ago, acquired an ice-glutinous lavender bangle at a relatively reasonable price. At that time, the market's recognition of lavender jadeite was far less than that of green jadeite, so the price was not high. However, this collector had a keen eye, appreciating its delicate texture, translucency, and unique purple hue. In recent years, with the increasing popularity of lavender jadeite and the growing scarcity of high-quality lavender rough, the value of this bangle has multiplied several times. This fully demonstrates that when investing in jadeite, in addition to focusing on mainstream varieties, one should also dare to explore undervalued unique varieties, provided you possess professional appraisal skills.

Summary and Recommendations:

The jadeite market, like life, is full of variables and opportunities. As a seasoned jade industry professional, I deeply understand its challenges and charm.

My recommendations are:

  • Learning is the Top Priority: Whether for appraisal or investment, solid professional knowledge is the cornerstone of success. Observe more, learn more, ask more, and enhance your appraisal skills.


  • Rational Investment, Within Your Means: Jadeite investment is not a shortcut to overnight wealth; it requires patience and a long-term perspective. Choose appropriate investment targets based on your financial strength and risk tolerance.


  • Careful Selection, Risk Avoidance: When purchasing jadeite, always choose reputable channels and request authoritative appraisal certificates. Be wary of products with excessively low or high prices.


  • Enjoy the Process, Preserve the Culture: Jadeite is not just a commodity; it is a treasure of traditional Chinese culture. In the process of appreciation and investment, enjoy the beauty and cultural熏陶 it brings, allowing this beauty to be passed down.


I hope my sharing has been insightful for everyone. May you all find your own brilliance and value in the world of jadeite. Thank you all.