GradingJul 30, 2024
Gübelin Academy Bringing Colored Gemstone Course to NYCSourcingAug 29, 2024
Lotus Gemology Publishes Book on Jade History
“Broken Bangle: The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature” is an in-depth look at the evolution of jade terminology.
Lotus Gemology’s new book, “Broken Bangle: The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature” is available now.
Bangkok—Bangkok-based lab Lotus Gemology has announced the release of a new book on the history of jade.
“Broken Bangle: The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature” provides an in-depth discussion on the “tortuous history” of jade nomenclature with explanations on how current monikers are based on misinformation and misunderstandings.
It also features works from some of China’s contemporary jade and stone carvers accompanied by images of historical documents and photos.
The book is authored by geologist and gemologist Liu Shang-i; Lotus Gemology founder and ruby and sapphire expert Richard W. Hughes; Director of the Gemology Education Center of Shanghai’s Tongji University Zhou Zhengyu; and Lotus Gemology gemologist Kaylan Khourie.
Related stories will be right here …
“Broken Bangle: The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature” provides an in-depth discussion on the “tortuous history” of jade nomenclature with explanations on how current monikers are based on misinformation and misunderstandings.
It also features works from some of China’s contemporary jade and stone carvers accompanied by images of historical documents and photos.
The book is authored by geologist and gemologist Liu Shang-i; Lotus Gemology founder and ruby and sapphire expert Richard W. Hughes; Director of the Gemology Education Center of Shanghai’s Tongji University Zhou Zhengyu; and Lotus Gemology gemologist Kaylan Khourie.
“Broken Bangle” includes a detailed section on the terms “nephrite” and “fei cui.”
In the mid-1800s, French mineralogist Alexis Damour was analyzing the Chinese gem yù, which is amphibole jade, and he named it “nephrite,” believing that he was looking at the same Mesoamerican pyroxene jade that a 16th century Spanish doctor himself misinterpreted as being used to treat kidney disease (“nephritus”).
In 1863, Damour coined another term for a new mineral species he called “jadeite.”
“Jadeite,” however, had already been known in China for over two centuries as fei cui (pronounced “fay choy”), the umbrella term the country’s trade uses for all pyroxene jades.
Recent studies have shown “jadeite” jade is a rock composed of three mineral components, the pyroxenes jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor. These components are very small, and it is nearly impossible to determine a stone’s exact composition.
Following the study, in July 2023, Lotus Gemology revised its lab reports, dropping the names jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor in favor of "fei cui.”
In December 2023, GIA also made changes to its jade reports, opting to, when appropriate, list the trade term “fei cui” with a note explaining that the term refers to the materials jadeite, omphacite, and kosmochlor.
“Our understanding of the world is deeply influenced by the names we assign to things. As history, culture, and scientific inquiry evolve, it becomes essential to assign accurate and fitting names to these unique types of jade that embody Chinese heritage. This nomenclature should reflect its cultural significance and resonate with both historical context and contemporary understanding,” said lead author Liu Shang-i.
Co-author Zhou Zhengyu added, “There is an ancient saying in China termed ‘casting a brick to attract jade.’ Any book or article is only a stage of understanding, and this understanding, if it can be better than before, is progress. Our work is certainly not the last word on the subject, but we hope it will help improve people’s understanding of this gem’s fascinating history and inspire others to research the subject further. Not unlike a brick thrown in the hopes of attracting jade.”
“Broken Bangle” will also cover other parts of Chinese culture, including much of the history of the Middle Kingdom.
The book is sponsored by Zhuang Qingfang, The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong, On Tung Jewellery, Junhao Gemology, and Pinde Xuan, along with Lotus Gemology.
The book is limited to 600 copies and can be purchased on Lotus Gemology’s website.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Sourcing
The Latest
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
Brought to you by
Protect Your Customers and Your BusinessYou deserve to know what you are selling–to protect your customers as well as your business and your reputation.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
Weekly QuizApr 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
Brought to you by
Is This You? Every Jeweler Has This Problem; We Have the Solution.Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
Events & AwardsApr 08, 2026
AGS Confluence Returns with AI, Sustainability SessionsRob Bates of The Jewelry Wire will also moderate a panel on the state of the jewelry industry during the virtual event.
Events & AwardsApr 08, 2026
TJS to Honor 2 Longtime Former Stuller EmployeesThe Jewelry Symposium will honor two industry veterans with lifetime achievement awards at its upcoming May event.
TrendsApr 08, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: April’s Brilliant Birthstone With their durability, brilliance, and beauty, diamonds are the perfect stone for everyday birthstone jewelry.
MajorsApr 07, 2026
QVC Group’s Latest Filing Calls Its Future Into QuestionThe retailer failed to file its annual report on time and said it may issue a going concern warning.
ColumnistsApr 07, 2026
Peter Smith: A Tip to the Post Office on Workplace CultureSmith recounts a recent trip to the post office that included an uncomfortable, embarrassing, and public exchange between two employees.
GradingApr 07, 2026
GIA CFO David Tearle to Retire in June John Cowley, who has more than 30 years of experience, is succeeding Tearle as the lab’s chief financial officer.
CollectionsApr 07, 2026
Nerd Out Over Gemology Geek’s First Jewelry CollectionFounder Erica Silverglide has designed 35 colorful pieces set with fluorescing gemstones for the brand's first finished jewelry offering.
CollectionsApr 07, 2026
Ukrainian Jewelers Highlighted In New Book“Ukrainian Jewelry | Contemporary Jewelry and Art Jewelry from Ukraine” features 33 contemporary Ukrainian designers and studios.
CollectionsApr 06, 2026
Fope’s New Jewelry Debuts Are Golden“The Golden Now” campaign celebrates the here and now with the brand’s signature styles and a selection of its new pieces.
MajorsApr 06, 2026
Kecia Caffie, Corinne Bentzen No Longer With Signet JewelersSignet confirmed that Caffie, president of Zales and Banter, and Bentzen, who headed Blue Nile, have left the company.
CollectionsApr 06, 2026
Historian Tanzy Ward Pens Book on Black Victorians’ JewelryThe antique jewelry dealer talks about the importance of including Black Americans in jewelry history and preserving their stories.
SourcingApr 06, 2026
Gemfields Reports $51M Loss in 2025Both its mines faced challenges last year, from operational issues to disruptions in the market.
CollectionsApr 03, 2026
Taylor Swift’s ‘Elizabeth Taylor’ Video Puts Jewelry Front and CenterIconic pieces, like the Mike Todd Diamond Tiara, appear in the superstar’s new music video for her song inspired by the actress.
MajorsApr 03, 2026
Saks Global Says It Will Emerge From Bankruptcy This SummerThe luxury retailer, which went Chapter 11 in January, announced Thursday that it has secured $500 million in exit financing.
Events & AwardsApr 03, 2026
JCK Luxury, NouvelleBox Partner on New Designer BallroomThe NouvelleBox ballroom will feature independent jewelry designers, including Lene Vibe, Wyld Box Jewelry, and Kiaia Limited.
CollectionsApr 03, 2026
Buddha Mama Brings Its ‘Moon’ Locket To DallasThe one-of-a-kind locket, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal three hidden images to keep close to your heart.
MajorsApr 02, 2026
Pandora Opens New Canadian Distribution Center Amid Tariff ConcernsThe new facility was also designed to better serve its growing customer base in Canada.
