Originally published: May 28, 2024
Last updated: February 26, 2026
This guide summarizes the grading categories shown in the charts below, including jadeite treatment types (A/B/C/B+C) and nephrite grade terms (AAA/AA/A/B+).
Jadeite Grading (Treatment Types)
The jadeite grading system shown above includes:
- Type A: Untreated.
- Type B: Chemically treated and resin impregnated.
- Type C: Treated with dye.
- Type B+C: Chemically treated, resin impregnated, and dyed.
Nephrite Grading
The nephrite grading chart above describes:
- AAA: Untreated, intense green or blue, no cracks, evenly coloured.
- AA: Untreated, intense green or blue, minor cracks or minor inclusions, nearly evenly coloured.
- A: Untreated, intense green or blue, some cracks, some inclusions, uneven coloured.
- B+: Untreated, not gem-grade material, carving grade.
FAQ
What is Type A jade?
Type A jade refers to untreated jadeite, as shown in the grading chart above.
What is Type B jade?
Type B jadeite is chemically treated and resin impregnated.
What is Type C jade?
Type C jadeite is treated with dye.
What does AAA nephrite mean?
According to the chart above, AAA nephrite is untreated, intense green or blue, evenly coloured, with no cracks.
Are jadeite and nephrite graded the same way?
No. Jadeite is classified using Type A/B/C treatment categories, while nephrite is graded separately using quality terms such as AAA, AA, A, and B+.