Ninety percent of the world’s jadeite is mined in Kamti, Hpakant, Tarmakhan, Lonkhin, Hsaitaung, Hmawsisar, and Mawhan in Kachin State, in the northern part of Myanmar.
Mainly tourists from Hong Kong, China and Japan buy jade bracelets and statues at the Chanayethazan jewellery market in Mandalay.
Jade is a major source of export earnings. Among other countries, China is the largest jade buyer from Myanmar, purchasing nearly 99 per cent of the total jade export.
The largest jade trader groups come from China, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea to the Gems Emporium in Myanmar, which is held in Nay Pyi Taw two times per year.
There is a belief among the Chinese people that “Imperial Jade” can ward off evil spirits and have a beneficial effect on health.
Currently, those businesses engaged in cutting and carving jade stones can be found in Mandalay.
Translated by Nat Ye Hla
