May 8th, Friday,
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Ancient Origins and Our Journey to Guatemala
Discover how green jade was treasured in ancient Mesoamerica—used by rulers and artisans for spiritual, ceremonial, and decorative purposes. This session begins with our journey through Guatemala, tracing the footsteps of early jade craftsmanship and uncovering the enduring cultural significance behind these timeless artifacts. -
Modern Guatemalan Green Jade in a Global Context
Learn how today’s Guatemalan green jade differs from its ancient counterparts in composition, texture, and artistry. This discussion also explores how modern mining and craftsmanship have redefined Guatemala’s place in the global jade market, with its green jade gaining recognition as a distinctive and competitive gem alongside Myanmar jade. -
Understanding Green Fei Cui Jade Scientifically
Gain a clear, accurate understanding of Fei Cui jade—its mineral structure, color variations, and formation process. We’ll examine how scientific analysis and advanced laboratory techniques can distinguish Fei Cui from other green stones, helping collectors and professionals appreciate its unique beauty and value. -
Practical Tips for Jade Identification
Learn simple visual cues for distinguishing Guatemalan green jade from Myanmar jade with the naked eye. You’ll gain hands-on insights into color tone, translucency, and texture—skills essential for anyone collecting, appraising, or buying jade worldwide.
What Makes the Presenter Unique
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Seven years of dedicated jade research covering both nephrite and Fei Cui varieties, with published articles and oral presentations at GIA and the ASA 2024 Rising Star Award.
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Cross-cultural expertise in both U.S. and Asian jade markets, ensuring accurate valuation and cultural interpretation.
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State-of-the-art gemological facilities at Bay Area Gem Lab, equipped with advanced analytical instruments for precise jade identification and appraisal.
Why This Webinar Stands Out
This webinar bridges history, science, and modern market insight. It reveals how ancient Guatemalan green jade—once reserved for emperors—has evolved into a modern gem accessible to all. Participants will walk away with cultural perspective, practical identification techniques, and an appreciation for the artistry and authenticity that make jade truly timeless.
Zemin Luo，GIA G,G, PhD in Mineralogy, is a jade researcher and appraiser based in the Pleasanton, Californiain Mineralogy. She is one of the few jade experts in the United States. This special webinar is not just for appraisers—it’s for anyone fascinated by gems, whether you– seek insider market trends, buy or sell gemstones or simply love wearing jade. She is the founder of the Bay Area Gem Lab and an expert in the use of advanced gemological instrument operation and data analysis.
She was a researcher and lecturer at the Gemological Institute, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan (GIC), for approximately seven years. Her research focuses on determining the geological origins of modern jade, particularly from major commercial sources worldwide. Some of her research findings were published in Gems & Gemology in 2015. She has delivered presentations at institutions such as Gemological Institute of America (ASA) and the American Society of Appraisers (ASA).
As a researcher, she is proficient in the use of advanced gemological instruments, including Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), Raman Spectroscopy, UV-VIS Absorption Spectroscopy, and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy. She founded Bay Area Gem Lab (BAGL LLC) in the San Francisco Bay Area, which is equipped with IR Spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Diamond Tester. With expertise in both instrument operation and data analysis, Zemin is dedicated to applying her extensive laboratory experience to the field of practical gemology, with a particular focus on the identification and evaluation of Jade (including Nephrite Jade, Fei Cui Jade, etc).