13.20 Ct. Green Jade from Burma (Myanmar)

This 13.20 carat bead shape green jade presents a precise fusion of measured mass and refined geometry, suitable for collectors and designers who value dimensional accuracy and lapidary technique. The bead measures 11.98 x 12.06 x 11.76 mm, the near equidimensional profile indicating meticulous preforming and symmetrical shaping during the cutting process. The cutting style is Bead, with a drilled cut that preserves structural integrity while enabling versatile mounting and stringing options. The drilled bore is executed with controlled taper and concentricity to minimize stress during stringing, and the surface exhibits an excellent polish that enhances surface reflectance without introducing glazing artifacts. This piece is offered with no enhancement, and its Burmese provenance underscores its geological pedigree, placing it within a well documented supply region known for premium green jade material.

Color characteristics are central to the appeal of this specimen, the surface displaying a vivid color intensity that reads as a saturated mid to strong green, with uniformity across the bead that reduces distracting zonation. The hue leans toward a classic emerald influenced green with balanced saturation and a medium to slightly deep tone that maximizes perceived color depth while preserving surface sheen. Because the material is opaque, light interaction is dominantly surface reflective and internal scattering is minimal, producing a dense color appearance rather than translucency derived play of light. The combination of vivid intensity and even distribution ensures the color will remain visually dominant when set or grouped, preserving its presence in both single bead focal applications and multi element compositions.

From a craftsmanship perspective, the bead demonstrates lapidary discipline in both shaping and finishing. The cutting began with controlled preform removal to preserve core density, followed by precision rounding on a lapidary wheel with progressive grit sequences to achieve the smooth lenticular profile. Drilling was performed with a stabilized arbor and stepwise bit progression to avoid microfractures that can occur in jade when subjected to rapid thermal or mechanical shock. The polish stage employed fine abrasives and a soft buffing medium to reach an excellent polish, delivering a waxy to satiny luster characteristic of quality jade, while avoiding over polishing that can mask surface character. The absence of enhancement confirms that the observed color and surface quality are intrinsic, reflecting the natural microcrystalline structure and polishing skill rather than treatment.

In jewelry applications the bead s vibrant green will command presence in any setting, whether used as a solitary focal element or integrated into a multi bead composition. Its dimensions and weight allow it to function as a substantial pendant bead on a single strand, or as a prominent component in a bracelet or high impact necklace. The saturated green contrasts strongly with warm yellow gold, creating a classical and high contrast presentation, while pairing with white metals such as silver, white gold, or platinum offers a modern, graphic aesthetic that emphasizes color purity. Combined with accent diamonds or light colored gemstones, the bead s color will become more pronounced through juxtaposition, while pairing with complementary greens or blues can yield tonal layering for sophisticated color narratives. For designers who prefer setting over stringing, the bead can be incorporated into a bespoke cap and bail assembly, with interior drilling providing secure mechanical restraint, or used as a statement bead in modular designs. The Natural Gemstone Company presents this Burmese green jade as a verified, untreated specimen, suitable for connoisseurs and designers seeking a durable, vividly colored material with proven craftsmanship and practical versatility.