Inside the World of Imperial Jadeite: A Message from David Harry Jewels

At David Harry Jewels, the most recent chapter of our journey has been devoted to mastering one of the most elusive and revered trades in the world of fine gemstones — the imperial jadeite jade market.

This trade is ancient, complex, and fiercely guarded — deeply rooted in the longstanding relationship between Burma and China. Since the 1700s, when jadeite jade was first discovered in northern Burma, the finest material — famed for its emerald-green hue and water-like translucency — has remained in the East, commanding some of the highest premiums in the global gemstone market. These stones, known as Imperial Jadeite, are among the most coveted in the world.

After years of dedicated study and immersive experience in the Far East, we are proud to say that David Harry Jewels is now uniquely positioned to offer certified imperial jadeite of the highest calibre to the Western world. And the industry is beginning to take notice.

Our growing reputation recently led to an invitation to a private viewing at the newly opened Asprey of London boutique within the Peninsula Hotel, Belgravia — a rare honour extended only to those truly embedded in the jadeite world.

There, I had the privilege of viewing a two-kilogram block of imperial jadeite rough — a piece valued in the millions. The quality was nothing short of extraordinary: pristine crystal structure, with a vibrant, evenly distributed emerald colour. 

Alongside it, an exquisite collection of carved bangles demonstrated the immense risk and craftsmanship required to create these timeless heirlooms. Their translucency under torchlight, paired with their consistent tone throughout, matched — and in some cases surpassed — the treasures I’ve encountered on my many visits to jade markets across Asia.

Even more astonishing was Asprey’s selection of red jadeite — an incredibly rare variety. Typically, red jade forms through oxidation on the surface of a jadeite boulder, which compromises its transparency. However, what I saw was exceptional: remarkably clear, finely crystallised pieces in a pure, vivid red — without the usual russet-brown undertones. In all my years working with jadeite, I’ve encountered specimens of this quality only a handful of times.

Then came the pièce de résistance: a perfectly matched red jadeite strand — quite possibly the only necklace of its kind in the world. A true showstopper. To assemble such a strand would likely take generations. Asprey’s achievement here is nothing short of monumental.

But what’s happening now may be even more significant.

If you attended our most recent private showroom event, you’ll already be aware: Guatemala has produced what was long thought impossible — imperial-grade jadeite.

It has long been assumed that only Burma could yield jadeite of imperial standard. But this new material, emerging from Guatemala, is brighter, finer, and more radiant than any Burmese jade I’ve seen. Currently, it’s available at a fraction of the cost — but with the Chinese luxury market’s appetite, prices are already climbing rapidly.
Even more importantly, the family who controls this new source has selected David Harry Jewels as their exclusive partner in the West.

This places us in a unique position — on track to become one of the most prominent imperial jadeite houses the Western world has ever seen.

For a limited period, we are making this exceptional jadeite available at the most accessible prices possible. But this won’t last. As demand continues to soar, retail pricing will inevitably rise to reflect its true market value.

Simply put, this is the beginning of something historic — and, in our view, the most opportune moment to invest in imperial jadeite.

Our new collections are currently in production, and I can say with complete confidence: this is a game changer. I look forward to sharing them with you soon.

David Harry