This article first appeared in the JNA September/October 2023 issue.

Gone are the days when jadeite jewellery was confined to more traditional motifs as designers are increasingly infusing their jadeite collections with modern aesthetics. From sleek and minimalist pendants to avant-garde statement watches, jadeite’s translucent beauty is perfectly highlighted by clean lines and unexpected combinations with other coloured gemstones and precious metals. Unlimited possibilities in jadeite jewellery designs are drawing in a younger, fashion-savvy clientele.

Trendy and whimsical

Adding playfulness and whimsy to jewellery designs is an emerging trend that appeals to consumers who appreciate the fun and versatile nature of their jewellery.

“Many clients are experienced buyers who already own popular gemstones like sapphires and rubies as well as fancy colour diamonds. What they are looking for now are jewellery pieces that reflect their refined taste and sparks intrigue and conversation among their peers,” said Oli Huang, founder of Taiwan-based Oli Jewelry, who is passionate about innovative jewellery-making techniques and meticulous craftsmanship.

A signature piece from Huang’s collections is a jewellery watch adorned with a top-quality green jadeite centre gem and jadeite accents resting on a diamond-studded ribbon bow. Unwinding the ribbon reveals the timepiece within. The double-layered design gives it a contemporary, artistic look, according to the jewellery designer.

Another highlight of Huang’s creations is an earring called “Snowdrop.” Inspired by spring blossoming after the snowy winter, this earring features a verdant jadeite flower bud interspersed with white HyCeram petals. The piece is intended to be worn on one ear for a unique personalised look. It is also a transformable piece as its components can be separated and worn in multiple ways.

This creative and functional jadeite jewellery aligns with the evolving fashion landscape of today where self-expression and individuality are celebrated.

Everyday elegance

Jewellery designers are increasingly using jadeite to create jewellery pieces that can be used for multiple occasions – be these formal events or for daily wear.

More innovative pieces are imbued with a so-called “everyday elegance,” which is making jadeite more accessible and appealing to a wider audience, ensuring that it stays relevant in the modern world of jewellery.

"My clients are mostly young professional ladies who work in offices. They prefer chic and simplistic designs, with a touch of understated elegance for daily wear,” said Iris Zhang, designer and founder of Guiqi Jewellery. Animal-inspired pieces and stylish designs with some sparkly elements are well-received in the market, she added.

Founded in 2015, Guiqi Jewellery has its roots in Suzhou, China. Zhang specialises in bespoke premium jadeite jewellery, showcasing the allure of this highly desired gem in different styles.

To give jadeite an edgier twist, designers are embracing a wider range of colours apart from the conventional green. The classic green hue remains a popular choice, of course, but there has recently been a growing trend towards incorporating a broader spectrum of colours such as luminous lavender, red, pink, grey, white and black in modern jadeite jewellery collections.

Zhang’s “Gem in Purple Mist” brooch featuring purple jadeite carved into a Chinese lute and accented with a white pearl is one stunning example.

“And above all, the jadeite must be of high quality. The quality of the gem is the top consideration when making a purchase. When I roll out new designs, my clients are always eager to get their hands on exceptional-quality jadeite jewellery,” Zhang said.