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Vintage Yellow-Orange Jadeite Necklace

Y
9 months ago
AI Appraisal
Description

This is a vintage Asian yellow-orange jadeite pendant on an adjustable cord.

Besides the pendant, there are 5 larger beads on the cord and two small ones.

On the pendant itself, there are 2 small and 2 bigger beads as well.

All the gems feel cold to the touch and were tested as jadeite by a gem tester.

I think the motif of the pendant is a gourd and a leaf, which has meaning in Chinese/Asian culture. Gourds are often considered symbols of prosperity and health, while leaves can represent growth, renewal, and nature's beauty.

When placed against the light, the pendant is a bit transparent. The gourd part is darker and closer to light brown. The pendant is carved from one piece of gem.

The pendant is 2'' long and 1'' wide. The necklace is 23'' without the pendant.

The overall weight of the item is 22 grams.

I believe it is from Burma. Also, I know nothing about the master who created it.

As jadeite prices vary greatly by color, it is hard for me to determine what it is worth.

Excellent condition: no scratches, no chips, no cracks.

Category Jewelry and Gemstones
Medium yellow-orange jadeite
Distinguishing marks No marks. However, this work could be typical to a well-known master for the motif or the way to insert the cord into the pendant.
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item Pendant 2'' by 1''
Date Period ?
Weight 22 grams
History This item was purchased at the thrift store.
Price Paid (If known) 5 CAD
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Submitted by Charley

Item: Vintage Yellow-Orange Jadeite Gourd Pendant Necklace
Owner: [Private Collection]
Category: Jewelry and Gemstones
Condition: Excellent

Description & Materials

This is a vintage carved yellow-orange jadeite pendant, intricately shaped into a stylized gourd and leaf motif. The pendant is suspended from a hand-braided dark cord interspersed with polished jadeite beads in matching tones. It includes:

  • Pendant: Approximately 2" long × 1" wide, carved from a single piece of jadeite.
  • Necklace: Adjustable cord, 23" long (without pendant).
  • Total weight: 22 grams.
  • Jadeite was confirmed using a gem tester.

Symbolism & Craftsmanship

The pendant’s gourd (hulu) and leaf motif is rich with meaning in Chinese culture. Gourds are associated with health, prosperity, and longevity, while leaves often symbolize renewal and harmony with nature. This piece likely served as both adornment and talisman.

The carving quality appears high, with delicate detailing, polished finishing, and a thoughtful cord integration. The lack of visible seams or glue around the drilled hole suggests skilled traditional craftsmanship.

Estimated Origin & Date

  • Likely Origin: Burma (Myanmar), a historic source of high-quality jadeite.
  • Estimated Date: Mid to late 20th century, possibly earlier based on design and wear.

Valuation

Valuing jadeite depends heavily on translucency, color saturation, carving artistry, and market demand. Yellow-orange jadeite is less common than green or lavender varieties, giving this piece niche appeal.
Comparable vintage handcrafted jadeite necklaces with similar symbolic motifs tend to sell in the following range:

  • Retail/Collector Market Value: $200–$400 USD
  • Resale (Thrift, eBay, Estate Sale): $100–$250 USD
  • Auction (with provenance or artist attribution): Up to $500+

Recommendations

  • Cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals; use a soft damp cloth.
  • Professional Appraisal: If insurance or high-end resale is planned, a certified gemologist’s evaluation will offer a more precise value, especially for color grading and identifying master carvers.
  • Documentation: Keep a printed or digital copy of this report and photos for records.

Submitted by yulianel

Thank you, my AI assistants tell me that the price of this color jadeite is at least 50-70 USD per gram, without the value of work.

That’s a good point for follow-up. The value of jadeite, especially colored jadeite like your yellow-orange pendant, can vary widely depending on color saturation, translucency, texture, craftsmanship, and market demand

1. General Jadeite Color Price Ranges (per carat):

Color

Low Grade ($/ct)

Mid Grade ($/ct)

High Grade ($/ct)

Imperial Green

$500 – $5,000

$5,000 – $20,000

$20,000 – $100,000+

Lavender

$200 – $1,500

$1,500 – $5,000

$5,000 – $15,000+

Yellow/Orange

$50 – $300

$300 – $1,000

$1,000 – $5,000+

Black

$20 – $100

$100 – $500

$500 – $1,500+

White/Icy

$50 – $300

$300 – $1,200

$1,200 – $8,000+

These are approximate retail prices and can vary by region and seller.

2. Your Pendant's Yellow-Orange Jadeite

Based on your detailed description and the images:

  • Color: Deep yellow-orange, warm and attractive
  • Translucency: Moderate (translucent under light)
  • Condition: Excellent
  • Carving Quality: Delicate, meaningful motif (gourd and leaf)
  • Weight: Approx. 22g (approx. 110 carats)
  • Type: Appears natural and untreated (assuming no dye or resin)

Estimated Value Range (Retail/Collector Market):

  • $200 – $600 depending on the buyer and market, possibly more if verified as untreated Type A jadeite and linked to a known region (like Burma).

Recommendation:

If you want a formal valuation or to sell at a higher tier, consider:

  • Gem lab testing (for Type A/B/C classification)
  • Selling through a specialty jadeite dealer or auction house
  • Getting a professional appraisal certificate
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