Q2 2024 Market Analysis Report for Imperial Jadeite - Glass Type

I. Market Overview and Price Trends

In the second quarter of 2024, the market for imperial jadeite (glass type) generally showed a steady upward trend, especially in the high-end boutique segment, where prices demonstrated strong resilience. Influenced by global economic conditions and fluctuations in consumer confidence, trading activity for mid-to-low-end glass-type jadeite saw a slight decrease. However, high-quality, rare glass-type jadeite continues to be sought after by collectors and investors.

This quarter, the average price range for imperial jadeite (glass type) was:
* Ordinary Glass Type (colorless/slight floating flowers/small pieces): 8,000 - 30,000 RMB/carat
* Medium Glass Type (fluorescent/good gelatinous feel/medium size): 30,000 - 80,000 RMB/carat
* High-Quality Glass Type (strong fluorescence/steel-like luster/large pieces/flawless): 80,000 - 300,000+ RMB/carat

Compared to the previous quarter, prices for ordinary glass-type jadeite remained largely stable, fluctuating between -2% and +3%. Medium glass-type jadeite saw a price increase of approximately 3%-8%. High-quality glass-type jadeite, particularly those reaching the 'above ice, below glass' or perfect glass-type levels, experienced the most significant price appreciation, with some rare large exquisite pieces seeing increases of 10%-15%.

II. Transaction Volume Analysis

The total transaction volume for imperial jadeite (glass type) this quarter was approximately 2,500 pieces (referring to documented and publicly traded high-end and mid-to-high-end products, excluding a large quantity of low-end bulk goods), a slight decrease (around -5%) from the previous quarter. Among these, online auctions and live-streaming sales channels accounted for an increased share of transactions, making up about 40% of the total. Offline high-end exhibitions and private sales remain the primary channels for high-quality glass-type jadeite.

III. Price Comparison by Quality Grade

| Quality Grade | Description of Characteristics | Typical Price Range (RMB/carat) | Price Trend (vs. previous quarter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Glass Type | Translucent texture, but weak fluorescence, possibly with some minor cotton-like inclusions or fine stone lines, smaller in size. | 8,000 - 30,000 | Stable to slightly up (+1%) |
| Medium Glass Type | Pure texture, exhibits fluorescence, good gelatinous feel, no obvious flaws, moderate size. | 30,000 - 80,000 | Steady increase (+5%) |
| High-Quality Glass Type | Extremely pure texture, strong fluorescence, even a 'steel-like luster', no visible flaws to the naked eye, excellent translucency, larger size or unique design. | 80,000 - 300,000+ | Significant increase (+12%) |
| Imperial Green Glass Type | Extremely rare, color reaches imperial green, and texture is glass type. | 1,000,000+ (priced per piece) | Extremely rare, prices firm |

IV. Market Trend Analysis and Forecast

  • Scarcity Drives Continued Strength in High-End Market: The depletion of high-quality jadeite rough is a long-term trend, and glass-type jadeite, being a top-tier material, is even rarer. In the future, the scarcity of high-quality glass-type jadeite will continue to be the core driver of its price appreciation.

  • Upgraded Consumer Aesthetic Preferences: As consumers gain a deeper understanding of jadeite culture and their aesthetic tastes evolve, the demand for high-quality, high-artistic-value jadeite is growing. Glass-type jadeite, with its ultimate transparency and fluorescence, perfectly aligns with this trend.

  • Accelerated Integration of Online and Offline: Online live streaming, short videos, and other new media forms provide a broader platform for jadeite transactions, but also place higher demands on appraisal and credibility. In the future, credible online platforms and authoritative appraisal institutions will play a larger role.

  • Increasing Prominence of Investment Attributes: Against the backdrop of increased global economic uncertainty, jadeite, as a physical asset with potential for preservation and appreciation, will further highlight its investment attributes, attracting more high-net-worth individuals.


Forecast: It is expected that in the second half of 2024, the market for imperial jadeite (glass type) will continue to show steady growth. Prices for high-quality glass-type jadeite are projected to continue leading the rise, with potential increases of 5%-15%. Medium glass-type jadeite will also see a moderate increase of 3%-7%. Prices for ordinary glass-type jadeite are expected to remain stable, but trading activity may be affected by the broader economic environment.

V. Investment Recommendations

  • Focus on High Quality, Avoid Low End: For investors, the focus should be on high-quality, collectible glass-type jadeite. While ordinary glass-type jadeite has a lower entry barrier, its appreciation potential is limited, and liquidity is relatively poor.

  • Comprehensive Consideration of 'Zhong, Shui, Se, Gong': The value of glass-type jadeite is not solely based on its 'Zhong' (texture/clarity); it also requires comprehensive consideration of its 'Shui' (translucency), 'Se' (color), and 'Gong' (carving craftsmanship). Only exquisite pieces that combine these perfectly possess the greatest investment potential.

  • Choose Authoritative Channels, Mitigate Risks: When purchasing jadeite, always choose reputable dealers or platforms backed by authoritative appraisal institutions. For online transactions, be especially wary of false advertising and misrepresentation.

  • Long-Term Holding, Patient Waiting: Jadeite investment is a long-term endeavor, and its value growth requires time to accumulate. Investors are advised to take a long-term view and avoid short-term speculation.

  • Pay Attention to Rare-Colored Glass Type: In addition to colorless glass-type jadeite, glass-type jadeite with rare colors (such as imperial green, vivid green, sky blue, etc.) has higher value and rarity, making it a more promising investment direction, though with a higher entry barrier.


Disclaimer: This report is based on current market data and analyst experience, and is for reference only. It does not constitute any investment advice. The jadeite market carries risks, and investment should be approached with caution.