Overview

During the early 1980s, the Hong Kong jade market was flooded with bleached and polymer impregnated jadeite (known as "B" Jade in the industry). It was difficult to distinguish "B" Jade from "A" Jade (Natural Jadeite) by standard gemmological testing and consumers' confidence was affected. Therefore, the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (formerly known as the Hong Kong Jade and Stone Manufacturers Association) established the Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory Ltd. (HKJSL) in 1993. Equipped with the most advanced instrumentation, including an infra-red spectrometer, the experienced gemmologists of HKJSL can test jade accurately and issue authenticated certificates to the public.

The Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory carries out jadeite testing and certification services in an impartial and objective manner, enabling both consumers and jewellery traders to have a clear understanding as to whether their jadeite is natural or chemically treated.

Services

In order to provide a more complete range of service for jewellery traders and consumers, HKJSL expanded its gemstone testing service in 1997 to include rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds. This service aims to ascertain whether a gemstone is natural, synthetic or an imitation stone and whether it has been treated, which is important for both the consumers and traders.

The Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory (Kowloon Branch) opened in 2001 and is a joint venture between The Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association and the Jadeite Traders Industry & Commerce Association, both non-profit making organisations. Since the two associations are not directly involved in any trade transactions, testing and certification services are carried out in an absolutely independent and unbiased manner.

Internationally, the Hong Kong Jade and Stone Laboratory is recognised by the World Jewellery Confederation, CIBJO (Confederation International de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie, Orfevrierie des Diamantes, Perles et Pierres), and has been designated as the Official CIBJO Registered Laboratory for Hong Kong.