Laboratory Certification Service

Independent Laboratory Certification – Technical Standard Reference

Optional certification is issued by Zhongwei Gemological Laboratory (中维珠宝玉石检测中心) in accordance with the Chinese national standard:

GB/T 16552 — Gems and Jade — Nomenclature

Under this standard, nephrite (commercially referred to in China as “Hetian Jade”) is defined strictly on mineralogical and structural criteria rather than geographic origin.

To qualify as nephrite under GB/T 16552, the material must satisfy the following core requirements:

1. Mineral Composition

The material must consist predominantly of tremolite–actinolite amphibole minerals, typically ≥95% by composition.
Identification is confirmed through spectroscopic and mineralogical analysis.

2. Microstructural Characteristics

The internal structure must exhibit the characteristic interwoven, fibrous or felted aggregate texture of nephrite.
This dense microcrystalline structure is responsible for nephrite’s exceptional toughness and durability.

Additional laboratory evaluation confirms:

• Gemological properties consistent with tremolite-based nephrite (e.g., refractive index and specific gravity)

• Natural and untreated status, with no evidence of polymer impregnation, dyeing, or artificial enhancement

Testing methods may include:

• Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)

• Raman spectroscopy (where applicable)

• Polarized light microscopy

• Standard gemological testing procedures

Position within the International Context

Nephrite deposits occur globally, including regions such as China, Russia, Canada, and Australia. Under GB/T 16552, classification is based solely on mineralogical composition and structural characteristics, not geographic origin.

Australian nephrite, when meeting the above mineralogical and structural criteria, may therefore be identified and certified under the same national standard framework.

Each certificate includes:

• Material identification (Nephrite / Hetian Jade)

• Colour description

• Treatment disclosure

• Item photograph

• Unique report number for verification

This certification provides independent mineralogical documentation for collectors, institutions, and clients seeking formal verification under recognised gemological standards.