Jadeite’s "Zhong Shui" Classification System

🌿 Jadeite’s "Zhong Shui" Classification System

Understanding Transparency, Texture, and Water Content in Jadeite

In traditional jadeite evaluation, the Chinese concept of “Zhong Shui” (種水) plays a key role in determining quality. This term combines two major elements:

• “Zhong” (種): The texture and crystal structure of the jadeite.
• “Shui” (水): The water content, luster, and transparency of the stone.

Together, they influence a jadeite piece’s brightness, clarity, and value.

🔍 I. Zhong (種): Texture & Structural Fineness

"Zhong" refers to the internal grain structure, density, and smoothness of jadeite. It directly affects how the stone reflects light and feels to the touch. Jadeite is classified into several categories based on texture:

💎 Glass-Type (玻璃種)

• Crystal-clear and almost as transparent as glass
• Exceptionally fine texture, no visible inclusions
• Rarest and most valuable category

❄️ Ice-Type (冰種)

• Highly translucent but slightly less than Glass-Type
• Clean, crisp structure with a cool, icy luster
• Very desirable in the market

🍚 Glutinous-Type (糯種)

• Semi-translucent, soft appearance
• Texture is smooth but somewhat cloudy, like rice porridge
• Commonly seen in mid-tier jadeite jewelry

🌱 Bean-Type (豆種)

• Coarser grains with visible crystal formations
• Typically opaque or only slightly translucent
• Uneven color distribution and lower market value

🎨 Other Types (e.g., 花青種 & 油青種)

• Flower-Green (花青種): Patchy green on a grayish or dark base
• Oil-Green (油青種): Dark, greasy tone with low transparency
• Both are considered commercial-grade jadeite

💧 II. Shui (水): Water-Like Appearance & Transparency

"Shui" measures the transparency, light penetration, and visual fluidity of jadeite—often referred to as its "water head."

✨ High-Ice Type (高冰種)

• Near-glass level transparency
• Clear, glowing, and very bright under light
• Just below Glass-Type in rarity and value

❄️ Ice-Type (冰種)

• Translucent to semi-translucent
• Smooth surface with strong luster
• Offers an appealing watery effect

🍶 Semi-Glutinous Type (糯化種)

• Softer luster with moderate translucency
• Transitional grade between Ice-Type and Glutinous-Type

🍚 Glutinous-Type (糯種)

• Slightly translucent with a cloudy interior
• Moderate “water head” and everyday wear-friendly

🫘 Bean-Type & Below (豆種及以下)

• Mostly opaque or minimally translucent
• Short “water head” and coarser visual appeal

🏆 Conclusion: Balance of Zhong + Shui = Jadeite Excellence

The best jadeite combines:

• Fine-grained texture (high Zhong)
• Excellent translucency and luster (high Shui)

Such as Glass-Type Jadeite, which is prized for both qualities and commands premium prices. However, jadeite with lower Zhong and Shui, like Glutinous or Bean-Type, is often used in beautiful and affordable daily wear jewelry.

📌 Quick Reference Table

Category	Texture ("Zhong")	Transparency ("Shui")	Typical Use
Glass-Type	Ultra-fine, no inclusions	Nearly transparent	Collector-grade, high-end pieces
Ice-Type	Fine, crisp texture	Very translucent	Premium wearables
Glutinous	Smooth but cloudy	Semi-translucent	Mid-range jewelry
Bean-Type	Coarse with crystal grains	Opaque or slightly translucent	Entry-level or commercial use
Other Types	Mixed or uneven texture	Low transparency	Commercial-grade

 

🛍️ Tip for Buyers

When shopping for jadeite, ask about both "Zhong" and "Shui" to better understand the piece’s value. Always request a certificate from a reputable gemological lab (e.g., GIA, Mason-Kay) to confirm authenticity.