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Hi,
New to Jade collecting. I picked this up in China during my last trip in October. Based on the quality of the carving it is far superior to most of the stuff I saw. That being said in China you never know what you have.

The piece is just under 7" long x 4" h x 2.25"W. Shows some nice but irregular patina. I did the scratch test and I can't make a mark into the material.

I do I go about authenticating what I have purchased? I live in the Chicago area.
Thanks,
Mike Benz

Sorry, this looks modern with an artificial colouring.There is a high possibility that it is not Jade. Here you need a specific gravity test to be sure.
Ernest

Mike,
This is a good looking piece! However, like Ernest, the coloring looks artificial and it's dirty! Which is the most common way dealers both on the internet and in person pitch a convincing story that it is a recent find.
If this where authentic and made of natural jade, it would be sparkling clean. But cleaned up, it still will be a interesting conversation piece.

Jim

Thanks for the input. Bought it from a dealer in ShenZhen for just under $200. I tried to clean up with just plain water. Any suggestions to remove the staining without ruining the value (if thats possible). Much of the debris in the carvings is coming clean without much difficulty.
Mike

Cleaning with shampoo, warm water, and a soft toothbrush ( it does not have to be your own).
Ernest

Mike,

Ernest's suggestion is a good one, though there are a couple people who have posted information which I would be hesitent to try... but you might do a search on the forum for ammonia. These are some of the methods dealers use to also fool buyers when staining or dirt doesn't work.

Jim

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