Jadeite, the epitome of nobility, power and beauty in Chinese culture, is increasingly becoming the gem of choice among discerning buyers and collectors alike.

The gem remains highly favoured at international auctions, according to Regin Ngan, head of Jewellery Department at Sotheby’s Asia. A notable example is the Jadeite Tianchi parure, which fetched US$4.1 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong auction last October. It was among the most valuable jewellery auction pieces of 2023.

Jewellery designers, meanwhile, are breathing new life into jadeite with modern and versatile designs. 

Chinlin Wang, founder and design director of Taiwan-based jewellery brand Chinlin W, is committed to showcasing jadeite's beauty in her creations.

Among the highlights of her latest collections is a double-sided jadeite pendant, which can be worn facing either side. This appeals to modern-day consumers who appreciate versatility in their jewellery, she noted. 

Wang observed growing demand for a wider range of colours for jadeite apart from the conventional green. “This pendant, for instance, is available in purple and black jadeite. Earrings featuring purple or white jadeite are also popular among my clients,” she said. 

The designer thus incorporates a broader spectrum of colours such as lavender, pink, yellow, white and black jadeite in her collections. Another of her signature pieces is a rooster-themed brooch featuring a yellow jadeite centre gem adorned with jadeite accents.