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.

“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It also features works from some of China’s contemporary jade and stone carvers accompanied by images of historical documents and photos.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.
The Latest

Following its recent acquisition, the storied brand has updated its leadership team and regional managers.

AGS also named the recipient of its “Women in Leadership” scholarship.

The 20-karat yellow gold and diamond wrap ring is modeled after the Monstera plants in the garden of the brand’s Miami villa.

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.

Rocksbox President Allison Vigil shared the retailer’s expansion plans, and her thoughts on opening stores in malls.


The creator of the WJA Chicago chapter is remembered as a champion for women in the jewelry industry and a loving grandmother.

The decline was consistent across age groups and almost all income groups, with tariffs and inflation still top of mind.

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

The “Playlist: Electric Dreams” collection brings lyrics from the musician’s song, “Little Wing,” to life through fine jewelry.

The event is set for May 16-19 in Detroit, Michigan.

The Vault’s Katherine Jetter is accusing the retailer of using info she shared for a potential partnership to move into Nantucket.

Agents seized 2,193 pieces, a mix of counterfeit Cartier “Love” and “Juste Un Clou” bracelets, and Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Alhambra” design.

The designer brought her children’s book, “The Big Splash Circus,” to life through a collection of playful fine jewelry characters.

The trade association has chosen the recipients of the funding initiative it formed to foster the growth and sustainability of the industry.

Associate Editor Natalie Francisco shares 20 additional pieces that stood out to her at the Couture show.

Lori Tucker started at Williams Jewelers when she was 18 years old.

The “Marvel | Citizen Zenshin” watch is crafted in Super Titanium and has subtle nods to all four “Fantastic Four” superheroes on the dial.

The “XO Tacori” collection was designed to blend luxury and accessible pricing.

Pritesh Patel, the lab’s chief operating officer, will take over as president and CEO of GIA.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America discuss the standout jewelry trends and biggest news to emerge from the shows this year.

The winning designs captured the “Radiance” theme.

Nominations in the categories of Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation will be accepted through July 30.

The singer’s ring ticks off many bridal trends, with a thick band, half-bezel setting, and solitaire diamond.

The bracelet references vintage high jewelry and snake symbolism as a playful piece where a python’s head becomes a working belt buckle.

The heist happened in Lebec, California, in 2022 when a Brinks truck was transporting goods from one show in California to another.

The 10-carat fancy purple-pink diamond with potential links to Marie Antoinette headlined the white-glove jewelry auction this week.

The Starboard Cruises SVP discusses who is shopping for jewelry on ships, how much they’re spending, and why brands should get on board.