Matching a strand

GIA notes color and texture as central to bead matching, alongside transparency, size and symmetry. Compare the strand as a whole, then inspect each bead for drill quality, polish and abrupt departures from the group.

Olmec jadeite pendant, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Reading a cabochon

Observe dome contour, symmetry, thickness and polish. A higher dome or convex back can influence how light travels, but no one profile is ideal for every material. The cutter balances visual effect with rough conservation.

Polished Olmec jadeite celt-pendant, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Mounting changes perception

Metal color, backing and surrounding accent stones affect contrast. Judge the loose stone and finished jewel as different visual situations, and ask whether any backing or coating forms part of the construction.

Emerald-green jadeite pendant from Qing-dynasty China, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Research basis

Independently written from public information supplied by GIA, Smithsonian and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. GIA · Smithsonian · The Met