Hello everyone, fellow jade enthusiasts! I'm Old Wang, a jade player for thirty years, from initial ignorance to now having some insights. Jadeite has always been a splash of emerald green in my heart. Today, I want to talk to you about jadeite maintenance, which is not just simple wiping and washing, but a science to make your beloved jade last longer and even become more lustrous with nurturing.

Scenario Introduction:
I remember when I first started, I acquired a jadeite bangle of excellent quality, and I couldn't put it down. But not long after, the luster of the bangle seemed to dim a bit, and even some tiny 'pores' appeared. At that time, I was so anxious, fearing that I had damaged the treasure due to improper maintenance. Later, I consulted several old masters and gradually figured out a set of effective jadeite maintenance methods. Today, I will share these 'secret' experiences with you.

Core Techniques:

  • 'Playing' is the Best Nourishment: Jadeite is alive; it needs to interact with the body's oils and temperature. My experience is that frequent wearing is the best way to maintain it. The oils secreted by human skin will slowly penetrate into the microporous structure of the jadeite, filling its tiny gaps, making its surface smoother and oilier, commonly known as 'patina.' But here, it's important to note that 'playing' is not violent friction, but gentle wearing and handling. I usually take it off before showering to avoid contact with chemical detergents, and normally I try to wear it close to my body.


  • Methodical Cleaning, Gentle First: Although jadeite has high hardness, it is not indestructible. For daily cleaning, I recommend gently wiping off surface dust and dirt with a soft cloth (such as a spectacle cloth). If you encounter stubborn stains, you can rinse it with clean water, then use a soft brush (such as a baby toothbrush) dipped in a small amount of neutral detergent (such as baby shower gel, remember not to use strong acid or alkali detergents) to gently brush, finally rinse thoroughly with clean water, and absorb the water with a clean soft cloth. Remember, never use an ultrasonic cleaner, as it can damage the structure of the jadeite.


  • Avoid High Temperatures and Chemicals: The internal structure of jadeite may change under high temperatures, leading to fading colors or cracks. Therefore, prolonged exposure to sunlight in summer, or proximity to fire sources, radiators, etc., are major taboos. I once saw a friend leave jadeite in a car to sunbathe, and as a result, the jade became dry and dull, which was heartbreaking. In addition, perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and other chemical substances can also corrode the surface of jadeite, causing it to lose its luster. My practice is to apply makeup and perfume first, then wear the jadeite.


  • Proper Storage, Avoid Bumps: When not worn, jadeite should be stored separately in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box to avoid friction and collision with other hard objects. I usually wrap my jadeite bangle in a velvet cloth and place it in a special wooden box. Especially when multiple jade pieces are stored together, they should be separated by soft cloth to prevent mutual scratching.


Precautions:

* Avoid Fumes: Kitchen fumes can adhere to the surface of jadeite, forming difficult-to-remove grease, affecting its luster. Therefore, it's best to take off jadeite when cooking.
* Regular Inspection: Develop the habit of regularly inspecting your jadeite for cracks, chips, or loose settings, and address them promptly.
* Maintain a Calm Mind: Nurturing jade is a gradual process; never rush for quick results. A good piece of jade requires the accumulation of time and the owner's meticulous care to bloom its most charming brilliance.

Experience Summary:
Nurturing jade is like nurturing a person; it requires patience and meticulousness. My jadeite bangle, after years of handling and careful care, now has a warm luster and vibrant green, as if it has a life of its own. It is not just an ornament, but a witness to my life's journey. I hope my experiences can help everyone better care for their beloved jade, allowing them to become more radiant and cherished heirlooms through the baptism of time.