There is a simple observation my mother taught me when I was little. You can rest jade against your cheek or tap it gently and notice its temperature, weight and sound. These observations can be interesting, but they do not prove authenticity. Laboratory or gemological testing is more reliable when a conclusive identification is needed.
I think of that lesson when selecting a piece for our jade shop in Zaragoza. Behind it are three generations of family history, two continents, and a stone that has accompanied many cultures for thousands of years.
From China to Zaragoza: a three-generation journey
My grandmother's forgotten jade
My grandmother left China hoping to build a better life for her family. She arrived in Spain without speaking the language, with more determination than luggage. Jade remained in the memories of her village, as something from another life.
My mother rediscovers the tradition
My mother brought jade back into our family story. Born in China but raised in Spain, she grew up between two worlds. One summer, while visiting family, she was given a nephrite bangle. She remembers its weight and smooth touch, and began to study jade.
She spent years learning about jade, imitations and gemological descriptions. She visited workshops, spoke with gemologists, and read material from the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the International Gem Society. What my grandmother remembered became part of our family's ongoing learning.
I grew up watching her work. She taught me to look at translucency and luster, to understand the differences between nephrite and jadeite, and to be cautious with claims that seem too simple. That experience led us to share jade jewellery in Zaragoza.
Jade jewellery in Spain
In China, jade has been part of cultural traditions for millennia. Jade was also valued by the Maya and other pre-Hispanic cultures in Mesoamerica. In Western Europe, including Spain, it is less familiar to many jewellery buyers. Dyed quartz, glass and serpentine can resemble jade, but they are different materials.
Wendy Jewellery is a jade-specialist jewellery shop in Zaragoza, Spain. We share information about natural jade and offer jewellery for people who want to learn more about jadeite and nephrite.
What jade is (and what it isn't)
Jadeite vs. nephrite: key differences
Jade commonly refers to two main gem materials: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is a pyroxene, a sodium and aluminium silicate, with a Mohs hardness of about 6.5 to 7. Nephrite is an amphibole, a calcium and magnesium silicate, with a Mohs hardness of about 6 to 6.5 and an interlocking fibrous structure.
The GIA describes nephrite as a historically widespread variety of jade with a long place in Chinese jade traditions. Our collection includes natural, untreated nephrite. The term Type A applies to jadeite, not nephrite.
- Composition: Jadeite, sodium and aluminium pyroxene; nephrite, calcium and magnesium amphibole
- Mohs hardness: Jadeite, about 6.5 to 7; nephrite, about 6 to 6.5
- Luster: Jadeite, vitreous to greasy; nephrite, waxy to greasy
- Typical colours: Jadeite, green, lavender, red and white; nephrite, green, creamy white, brown and black
- Structure: Jadeite, granular crystals; nephrite, interlocking fibres
Read our guide to jade and jadeite for more information.
Common imitations
Common look-alikes include green aventurine quartz, serpentine, prehnite, chrysoprase, dyed glass and plastic. Touch, sound and appearance alone are not definitive tests. Laboratory or gemological testing is more reliable when authenticity needs to be confirmed. Read our guide to jade identification.
Our collection: jade jewellery for everyday wear
Our collection includes jade jewellery intended for regular wear, from simple pieces to more detailed designs. Nephrite and jadeite still benefit from careful handling and appropriate care.
Natural jade necklaces
Explore jade cabochon pendants and necklaces, including designs made with nephrite.
Jade bracelets and bangles
Discover traditional-style bangles and bracelets with nephrite beads. Jade bangles have an important place in Chinese jewellery traditions.
Jade earrings
See classic and contemporary jade earring designs for regular wear.
Jade rings
See jade cabochon rings that bring together jewellery-making tradition and contemporary design.
For treatment information and material details on a particular piece, consult its product page or contact us before purchase.
The cultural meaning of jade
The five Confucian virtues
In Chinese culture, jade is more than a beautiful stone. It is often associated with the five Confucian virtues: benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, courage and purity. Jade may be given for family occasions or kept as an heirloom, carrying personal meaning over time.
Read our guide to the meaning of jade and our jade cleaning and care guide.
Wendy Jewellery in Zaragoza
We are a small, family-run jewellery shop in Zaragoza. When you contact us, you can ask directly about jade, care and the available pieces.
Information about materials
We aim to describe materials and available product details clearly. For a specific question about a piece, contact us so we can provide the information available for that item.
A family journey
Our connection with jade is part of a three-generation family journey from China to Zaragoza. My mother has spent years learning about jade and gemology, and that learning informs how we approach the collection.
Personalised service
Ask us about care, materials or choosing a piece as a gift. Write to us or plan a visit in Zaragoza.
Frequently asked questions about authentic jade
How do I know if a piece of jade is authentic?
Temperature, weight, sound and appearance can be observations, but they cannot prove authenticity. A laboratory or gemological test is more reliable when confirmation is needed. Common look-alikes include dyed quartz, glass and serpentine. Read our guide to jade identification.
What's the difference between jadeite and nephrite?
They are two different minerals, both called jade. Jadeite is generally harder and may occur in vivid colours. Nephrite has an interlocking fibrous structure and a long history in Chinese jade traditions. See our jade and jadeite guide.
Does jade need special care?
Jade jewellery should be protected from hard knocks, chemicals and sudden temperature changes. Clean it with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. See our jade care guide.
Where can I buy jade jewellery in Spain?
Wendy Jewellery is a jade-specialist jewellery shop in Zaragoza, Spain. For current availability and assistance, contact us.
Can I visit the shop in Zaragoza?
You can find current location and opening-hour information on our contact page. Visitors can view the available pieces in person.
From our family to yours: welcome to Wendy Jewellery.
Wendy Jewellery
Jade jewellery | Zaragoza, Spain.