Thursday, February 18, 2016

Where is China’s Natural Jade Located?


It is difficult for a westerner with no knowledge of Chinese language to follow the trails to sources of Chinese jade. Information on the internet varies greatly in credibility and is often confusing or contradictory.

Many sources say there is no jadeite in China, only nephrite jade. It seems most likely that jadeite is found but it is not of gem quality. 

On the other hand it is stated that good quality jadeite is found in Tibet, now claimed by China. You may also find it said that there is

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

New Film Explores Realities of "Jade City"

A documentary shedding some light on the life of fortune hunters in war-torn Kachin in Myanmar Burma has premiered in Berlin. "Jade City" is the work of Taiwan-based director Midi-Z, who was born in Myanmar. Although framed by the hopes and problems of jade miners, the film is centrally a family story, a search for a long-lost brother.
I didn't see a reference to the language of the film, a trailer located here (link) seems to be silent. There is also a post on YouTube claiming to be the entire film but you are directed from there to another site, I didn't follow.
Some criticism focuses on length and low-key approach; without seeing the film I offer no criticism here. The film industry magazine Variety provides a review of the film located here (link).
UPDATE: Found another review which mentions subtitles. And gives further insight into the quality of the film, comparing it to home movies but at the same time praising the insights into the shadowy world of freelance jade hunting. The review is found here.

Friday, February 12, 2016

An Important In-Depth Interview with a Master of Scholar Stones

Scholar stones are also known as viewing stones and Suiseki, a valued cultural treasure that is becoming a popular collectible. Although composed of many types of stone, it is not uncommon to find them in jade. This interview, conducted by the editor of the Jade News & Notes blog, will provide substantial insight into a fascinating field. The interview may be found here (link).