Jade identification

Raman spectroscopy offers a fast method for distinguishing jade from it's numerous imitations. Jadeite (Fei Cui) and nephrite have unambiguously different Raman fingerprints so they are automatically identified and separated by GemmoRaman software's library search function. Additionally, extented range acquisition is able to spot for water peaks in nephrite at about 3680 cm-1.

Figure 1: Raman spectra of Jadeite and nephrite Jade

Jadeite vs. omphacite

Jadeite and omphacite creates a solid series. Approximate end member percentage of both end members can be estimated by careful measurement of  the "690 cm-1" Raman peak. The center of this peak is at 680cm-1 for 100% omphacite, and for pure jadeite it is shifted to about 700 cm-1. If peak position lies between these values the sample consists of both end members. For example, 50/50 omphacite-jadeite shows the peak at approximately 690 cm-1.

Figure 2: Raman spectra of Jadeite and Omphacite Jade

B-type resin impregnated jadeite

Jadeite is commonly treated by bleaching, dyeing and impregnation. The most commonly used chemicals for impregnation are resins or other polymers which can be identified by series of peaks near 3000 cm-1 and 1610 cm-1. Basically, untreated A-type jadeite does not have any Raman peaks above the 1100 cm-1 line. It should be noted that VIS-NIR spectroscopy is needed for testing the origin of color. Typically coloring agents of C-type (dyed) jade can not be seen in Raman or PL spectrum.

Figure 3: Raman spectra of A-type vs. B-type Jadeite