Antique says rare treasures

Author: Chen Chongyuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-01-01
Features: What were the eight famous inscriptions of the Luliangchang in Old Beijing during the Qing Dynasty? How did the discovery of the during the Qianlong era promote the formation of the Luliangchang antique industry? What is the secret to distinguishing between real and fake natural pearls? Is a rose purple sapphire better when it is pure and transparent or when it has six lines of white light? How many shades (shai) of diamonds are the most popular in the international jewelry market? Experts buy jade materials with the mindset of "better to buy a line than a large piece," so how can one "open the door" to judge the veins, properties, and length (zhang) of jade materials? This book presents the historical evolution, business methods, market conditions, anecdotes, and mysteries of identifying jewelry, diamonds, and jade in the Luliangchang antique and jewelry shops of Old Beijing, especially those specializing in jade and gems, in the form of casual conversations between experts. It also outlines the true social landscape of Beijing during the Japanese occupation and the Nationalist Party rule, as well as the winding experiences of famous figures in the Old Beijing jewelry and jade industry. The firsthand accounts and critiques by industry experts make readers feel as if they are on the scene, greatly benefiting from the insights. The century-old secrets of the Luliangchang jewelry and jade shops in Old Beijing are gradually unveiled.