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Subject:Tomb jade - real of fake?
Posted By: Adam Tue, Feb 17, 2015 IP: 73.200.135.47

I bought a pair of shi bookends from an antique store with roots in Beijing. I was told they were modernly carved of tomb jade, but I remain skeptical. I'm fond of them in any case, and did not spend very much for them, but I would like to have an understanding of what material they are truly composed of. The material scratches easily, and has a chalky residue and a slight mineral luster. Attached are photos of the softness and of some flakes of fugitive impurity. I think I've ruled out quartz or soapstone, but can't be certain. Your thoughts appreciated - thanks!





Subject:Re: Tomb jade - real of fake?
Posted By: pierrevdw Wed, Feb 18, 2015

Hi,
I might be wrong but this looks like alabaster more than jade.

Cheers

Subject:Re: Tomb jade - real of fake?
Posted By: rat Wed, Feb 18, 2015

as others will no doubt write, jade does not flake or scratch, and the carving quality seen in the photos seems low. these are for your enjoyment; they don't have commercial value.

Subject:Re: Tomb jade - real of fake?
Posted By: snap Thu, Feb 19, 2015

Bookends made mostly last half 20th century for western tourist/market. You can see that stone partly carved with motor-driven device like drill.

Test for alabaster or marble, on bottom few drops of vinegar -- will bubble or fizz a little.

Subject:Re: Tomb jade - real of fake?
Posted By: Dave Tue, Feb 24, 2015

tomb jade from tomb raider? What do you even mean by "tomb jade"?

Could be molded, just a gut feel.


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