How do I care for jade?

Nephrite is physically tough and resists scratching from most household objects, but it still benefits from gentle handling. Clean pieces using warm water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemical detergents that might dull the polish. Keep carved items away from sudden temperature extremes and store them on stable surfaces or dedicated wooden stands. Regular inspection of mounts and cords ensures that pendants and mounted sculptures remain secure.

What is the difference between nephrite and jadeite?

Nephrite and jadeite are chemically distinct minerals that share a similar appearance and historical designation in Chinese art. Nephrite is an amphibole silicate with an interlocking fibrous matrix, while jadeite is a pyroxene mineral that often displays brighter apple-green tones. Historical Chinese carvings rely almost exclusively on nephrite due to local availability and traditional preferences. Jadeite gained wider popularity during the later Qing Dynasty through trade with Burma.

How can I tell the period?

Dating relies on stylistic clues, tool marks, and the specific iconography associated with particular reigns and dynasties. Archaistic pieces from the early twentieth century often reinterpret ancient bronze patterns with different finishing techniques than actual early artefacts. Examining the depth of the carving, the polish inside recessed areas, and any accompanying stands helps establish the historical context. Comparing the material colour against established period palettes provides additional confirmation.

What were brush washers used for?

Brush washers functioned as essential desk accessories for scholars and literati who practiced traditional Chinese calligraphy and ink painting. These shallow vessels held the water needed to clean ink brushes or dilute pigment during composition. Carved from nephrite or hardstone, these objects served as decorative desk art that reflected the owner's refinement. Their intricate forms often incorporated naturalistic motifs like lotus leaves or swimming fish.

Home > Chinese Nephrite > Page 2

Antique Chinese Nephrite

21 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

These pieces of antique chinese nephrite bring centuries of master carvers' hardstone artistry straight to your cabinet.

A Chinese Pale Celadon and Russet Jade Brush Washer

18th century

Save

A Chinese Pale Celadon and Russet Jade Brush Washer

From Sandbanks Antiques

£5,950

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

A Very Impressive Finely Carved Hard Stone Chinese Head Rest and Box

19th century

Save

A Very Impressive Finely Carved Hard Stone Chinese Head Rest and Box

From Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques

£750

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

18th century

Save

18th Century Qianlong Period White Jade Belt Buckle

From Original Retro

£4,500

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

A Finely Carved Chinese Jade Pendant of a Deity Circa 1880 to 1920

19th century

Save

A Finely Carved Chinese Jade Pendant of a Deity Circa 1880 to 1920

From Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques

£585

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

Chinese Jade Carving of a Small Boy Holding a Birds Nest with an Egg

19th century

Save

Chinese Jade Carving of a Small Boy Holding a Birds Nest with an Egg

From Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques

£395

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

← 1 2 →

65,576

Antiques For Sale

310

Antiques Approved Today

3,824

Antique Uploads This Month

440,471

Total Antiques Sold

Antique Chinese Nephrite

A Chinese Pale Celadon and Russet Jade Brush Washer

A Very Impressive Finely Carved Hard Stone Chinese Head Rest and Box

18th Century Qianlong Period White Jade Belt Buckle

A Finely Carved Chinese Jade Pendant of a Deity Circa 1880 to 1920

Chinese Jade Carving of a Small Boy Holding a Birds Nest with an Egg

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories