How to use this glossary

Jadeite terms can be scientific, observational, laboratory/report language, standard language, trade shorthand or design/form vocabulary. The same word can be used differently in different settings. Each entry below is deliberately compact and points to a deeper guide where one exists. A glossary does not override a laboratory report, an official standard or evidence attached to a specific object.

Material and observation terms

TermScoped meaningRead more
Jadeite (mineral)A pyroxene mineral. Mineral jadeite is not identical to every use of “jadeite jade” or “jade”.What Is Jadeite?
Jadeite jade / Fei Cui (gem material)A gem material or mineral aggregate dominated by jadeite in the relevant context. Defined modern jade terminology can include green omphacite in limited contexts; that nuance does not make every green pyroxene mineral jadeite.What Is Jadeite?
Jade (umbrella term)A broader gemological and cultural term, most often used for jadeite jade and nephrite; the intended material should be stated.Jadeite vs Nephrite
Nephrite (scientific/material)A different amphibole-based material also commonly called jade; visual resemblance is not always decisive.Jadeite vs Nephrite
Texture (observation)The apparent fineness or coarseness of the aggregate as it appears under stated viewing conditions.Transparency & Texture
Transparency / translucency (observation)Terms for how light enters and travels through material; thickness, curvature and lighting affect the observation.Transparency & Texture
Hue, tone, saturation, distribution (observation)Separate ways to describe color family, lightness/darkness, strength and placement.Jadeite Color

Laboratory, report and treatment terms

TermScoped meaningRead more
Identification (laboratory/report)A stated conclusion about material reached within the methods and scope of a laboratory report.Reading a Jadeite Report
Treatment disclosure (laboratory/report)Wording that records treatment findings or conclusions at the report’s stated scope.Natural vs Treated
Type A, B, C (trade terminology)Common jadeite trade shorthand that needs context; it should not replace exact laboratory wording or be treated as a universal legal grade.Treatment Terms
Grading (standard/framework)A defined system with a stated scope; it is not a substitute for identification, treatment disclosure or price.Standards Guide
Report (document)A document whose exact wording, issuer, matching details and stated scope should be read together.Reading a Jadeite Report

Form and setting terms

TermScoped meaningRead more
Bangle (form)A continuous ring form whose inside diameter, profile, width and thickness affect fit and observation.Jadeite Bangles
Cabochon (form)A shaped, polished stone with a curved surface rather than facets; outline, dome and setting context matter.Beads & Cabochons
Bezel / prong (setting)Different ways metal can retain a stone; the setting changes which edges and surfaces can be observed.Prong vs Bezel
Open / closed back (setting context)Descriptions of whether the rear of a setting is exposed or covered; neither description alone determines material quality.Jewelry Setting
K-gold (metal terminology)A gold-alloy description whose exact composition should be stated separately from the jadeite material.K-Gold & Jadeite

When a short definition is not enough

Do not use a glossary entry to settle an object-specific question. For a buying decision, follow the Buying Guide; for factor comparison without a price claim, read Price & Value Factors; and for the distinction between standards, reports and observation, use Grading, Identification & Standards.

Research basis