Jade bangles are one of the easiest pieces of fine jewelry to maintain because they require minimal care. Real (Type-A, natural, untreated) jade bangles can be worn for years without any polishing, as long as they are properly taken care of. In Chinese culture, there is a saying: 人养玉，玉养人 ("People nourish jade, and jade nourishes people"), meaning that the wearer and the jade form a special bond over time. Here are the key tips to keep in mind to ensure your jade bangle stays beautiful and intact for generations.
1. Understanding Jadeite Jade’s Hardness vs. Durability
Jadeite jade, one of the two types of jade, is highly prized for its vibrant colors and translucency. It ranks between 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it relatively hard but not impervious to damage. While hardness measures resistance to scratches, durability refers to how resistant a material is to breaking or chipping. Unlike diamonds, which are incredibly hard but can chip easily due to their crystalline structure, jadeite has an interlocking fibrous structure that gives it excellent toughness. However, a strong impact can still crack or break it.
Nephrite jade, the other form of jade, is slightly softer, ranking around 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. It has even better toughness than jadeite due to its dense fibrous composition, making it more resistant to breaking. However, nephrite jade does not have the same level of vibrant color and translucency that jadeite is known for.
2. Why Natural, Type-A Jade is the Most Durable Choice
Not all jade on the market is natural or stable. Many lower-quality jade pieces undergo treatments like bleaching, dyeing, or polymer impregnation (often referred to as Type-B or Type-C jade). These treatments weaken the structure of jade, making it more brittle and susceptible to damage over time.
Type-A jade, on the other hand, is 100% natural and untreated, ensuring that its original toughness and structure remain intact. Because of this, Type-A jade bangles are the most durable and stable choice for daily wear. If properly cared for, they can be passed down as heirlooms for generations.
3. Minimal Care Required for Jade Bangles
Since Type-A jade is naturally strong and stable, it requires very little maintenance compared to other fine jewelry. Here’s how you can easily care for your jade bangle at home:
What You Can Do:
- Wear your jade bangle daily—natural body oils help maintain its luster and smoothness.
- Clean your bangle occasionally with mild soap and warm water, then dry it with a soft cloth. If you wear it every day, simply showering with it will suffice!
- Store it in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with padding to prevent accidental impacts when not wearing it.
- If you notice any dirt or buildup, gently wipe it with a damp cloth.
What to Avoid:
- Do not drop your jade bangle on hard surfaces, as strong impacts can cause cracks or breaks.
- Avoid hitting your bangle against countertops, door frames, or other hard objects.
- Keep your jade away from harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners and acids, which can interfere with its luster.
- Do not expose it to sudden extreme temperature changes (showering and hot tubs are fine), as this may create stress fractures over time.
As our jade expert Jane would say, a jade bangle truly becomes a part of your body—just take care of your jade the same way you take care of yourself. There is no need to keep it oiled or waxed. The most important factor is that it is natural, untreated jade.
By following these simple guidelines, your jade bangle will remain a stunning and cherished piece for generations to come. A well-cared-for jade bangle is not just jewelry—it’s a timeless treasure that carries meaning, culture, and history. These precious bangles are often passed down from generation to generation, symbolizing love, protection, and continuity. Treat your jade with care, and it will reward you with beauty for a lifetime!
Baikalla Jewelry: Your Trusted Source for Fine Jade
At Baikalla Jewelry, we carry only fine, luxury-quality jade. We also offer a lifetime authenticity guarantee on all of our jade pieces, ensuring that every piece we sell is 100% Type-A (natural, untreated, real) jade. Additionally, we provide a lifetime bangle upgrade program because we understand the lasting value of high-quality jade. Schedule a consultation today to find your perfect jade bangle!
