History of Jade in China - Chinese History - Chinese Archeology - China culture History of Jade in China 1 Hui Merchants Huizhou's geographic location was significant to the economy of southeastern China as a... Jade is a stone ingrained in Chinese art, culture and history, stretching 9,000 years back into the ancient and enormous Chinese empire. Jade has always been a special stone, used not just for fine objects but also as material for grave goods for the imperial family. It is believed to be a link between both the physical and the spiritual worlds, and is the only material that completely encapsulates both the yin and yang qualities of Heaven and Earth, earning it the moniker The Stone of Heaven. History of Jade Jade mines in China have long been depleted, but the association and love for this stone endures with the Chinese. Jade is also found in Burma, Central America, Brazil, Canada and India. Although prized by other civilisations as well as the Chinese, no other culture can rival China for the richness and intricacy of the jade rings, bracelets, beads and pendants found there. The Chinese have been working jade since the Neolithic period, to the present.

Discs and tubes made of jade found in Neolithic Chinese graves are the earliest indication of this stone's association with the otherworldly. By 200 B.C., when the Book of Songs was written during the Zhou dynasty, the stone was established as an aid to immortality. It would continue to be used in burial rituals well into the Han Dynasty. During the Shang Dynasty (1600 B.C. to 1050 B.C), jade was used for personal adornment by kings, as well as for utilitarian and ceremonial objects. Jade knives, daggers and objects imbued with royal meanings like sceptres and jade burial suits have been found in tombs most likely used for ritual or military ceremonies. A record from a 200 A.D Chinese dictionary defines jade as the fairest of stones, endowed with five virtues charity, rectitude, wisdom, courage and equity. Towards the end of the Tang Dynasty however, funerary practises changed and by the time the modern Ming and Qing dynasties rolled around in the 16th century, the stone had become more referential and was primarily used as material for objets d'art of the imperial court.

The Qualities of Jade This milky green stone is seen as a metaphor for human virtues because of its hardness, durability and beauty. Confucius, the Chinese philosopher, famously said the good virtue of man is like jade. It represents dignity, blessing, fortune and longevity. White jade is the most highly valued, but the stone comes in a variety of translucent shades of green, brown and black. In China the term jade is actually used to encompass several different minerals which include serpentine and aventurine which are not true types of jade. There are only two distinct stones that are true jades nephrite and jadeite. Both these tones share many qualities, but jadeite has a greater range of colours. The hardness and brittleness of jade requires great skill to craft, but great intricacy can be accomplished with this stone. Coupled with its high lustre and translucency, jade is a gemstone that is much sought after. A Chinese proverb attributes greater attachment to jade than to gold, as gold has value, but jade is invaluable. Jade and Superstition This imperial gem of both Heaven and Earth has always been empowered with magical properties, at least in the minds of the Chinese.

Taoist alchemist believed it to be the Philosopher's Stone, and drank elixirs of powdered jade. Jade was also considered a guardian against illness and evil spirits, which is why even babies in China are given a tiny jade bangle to wear to ward off bad luck. In the Han dynasty, emperors were buried in jade gowns and jade cicadas were placed on dead kings' tongues to prevent decomposition and safeguard chi or energy. Culturally, jade stands for beauty, grace and purity. It is often referred to as a live stone due to its propensity to change colour. Many Chinese believe that if the stone likes the wearer, it will grow a deeper, darker shade of green. Many pieces of jade jewellery do change colour over time, and believers who wear it for protection and good luck attribute this to the absorption of bad chi that would otherwise have affected the wearer. Jade is also supposed to improve blood circulation and calm the mind. Modern Use Traditionally, many Chinese family heirlooms have at least one piece of jade in their trove, often a jade bangle passed down from mother to daughter.

Jade is still worn as a deterrent of bad luck but it is also finding its place as a relevant gem in the fashion and jewellery industries. Popular in Hong Kong as well as China, modern designs of jade combine both cutting edge design and cultural reference to an ancient heritage. search More Articles about History of Jade in China Gold Has Value; Jade is Invaluable For thousands of years jade has been the symbol of love, virtue, beauty, grace, purity as well as being a status symbol in China. While the English word jade has no meaning its name "yu" in Chinese... Related Articles Articles – "jade gemstone facts" – SWCreations Jade: Gemstone of Spirit and Virtue Long associated with Chinese culture, jade is an ancient and beautiful gemstone. The characteristic green color of the stone (which can range from very pale, milky green to very dark green) is caused by its iron content. More iron results in deeper green color. This extremely durable stone has been used to make tools and beaded jewelry, along with other objects used for ornamental or spiritual purposes, for at least 7000 years. Fine examples of jade jewelry and artifacts, both modern and historic, have been found all over the world.

Jade and Chinese Culture It is hard to overstate the prominence of jade in Chinese culture. Traditionally, jade has been thought to ward off evil spirits and bring good health and long life. Jade is thought to possess almost human qualities, as described by Xu Shen in his work, Shuowenjiezi : A stone that is beautiful, it has five virtues. There is warmth in its lustre and brilliance; this is its quality of kindness; its soft interior may be viewed from the outside revealing [the goodness] within; this is its quality of rectitude; its tone is tranquil and high and carries far and wide; this is its quality of wisdom; it may be broken but cannot be twisted; this is its quality of bravery; its sharp edges are not intended for violence; this is its quality of purity. (Translation adapted from Zheng Dekun) Because of the beauty of jade and its spiritual properties, it has been treasured by the Chinese people throughout their history. Jade has been called the imperial gem, and ornamental objects made from jade have been found in ancient royal tombs. Jade is still popular in China today. Many households own cherished objects made from jade.

In addition to jewelry, jade can be fashioned into innumerable things, from hair combs to statues to tea sets. These items are highly valued and often displayed with pride. Jade and Maori Culture The Maori people are indigenous to New Zealand. Originating in Polynesia, they traveled the ocean by canoe and arrived in New Zealand around 3500 years ago. They have a rich and unique culture largely centered around artistic and religious pursuits. Jade, called pounamu in the Maori language, is sacred to the Maori people. Found only on the South Island, jade was originally mined for use in tools. Eventually, tribal leaders began to use ceremonial objects carved from jade as symbols of rank. These items were considered taonga (treasure) and were highly valued. Today, jade is a favored gemstone in New Zealand. It is worked into jewelry featuring traditional Maori designs and symbols. Items made from jade are popular with tourists, and New Zealand residents often wear jade jewelry for good luck when traveling out of country. Jade in Mesoamerica Jade has been found in archeological locations throughout Central America. Many ceremonial items made from jade appear in Mayan burial sites.

One example is the jade beads often found in the mouths of the dead . Olmecs were especially fond of rare blue jade. Found only in Guatemala, it symbolized water and was important to their religious rituals. Jade is prized by people around the world. It is strong, gorgeous, and versatile and has great spiritual significance. For more information about gemstones or to see our beautiful handcrafted jade jewelry , please contact us today. Jade, The Essence of Heaven and Earth Jade was considered more precious than diamonds in pre-Hispanic Mexico. This captivating green stone was valued with the same mystical properties in pre-historic Asian cultures. Named the “Stone from Heaven” jade has been prized in both Mesoamerica and China for thousands of years. The earliest jade object found by archeologists in China was a piece of a serpentine jade discovered in the Immortal Cave in Haicheng in the Liaoning Province. This artifact dates back to the Stone Age, more than 12,000 years ago. How important was jade to the ancient Chinese civilization? The Philosopher Confucius was recorded reflecting on the qualities of this powerful stone.

“Soft, smooth and glossy, it appeared to them like benevolence; fine, compact and strong - like intelligence.” Attributed to Confucius (about 551-479 BC). Called “yu” in Chinese and “ya’ax chin hun” in Mayan, the term “jade” roughly refers to a variety of metamorphic green stones including jadeites and nephrite. It cannot be fully understood by today’s culture of the enormous value attributed to this stone by early civilizations. Pure white jade was rare and highly valued in ancient times, reserved in hina for Emperors and royalty. When green jade was introduced it then became the favored color by the elite. Jade was often used as intricate ornaments for the very wealthy and symbolized the noble bearings of a gentleman. There is a Chinese saying: "The gentleman's morals are like jade." Meaning, his comportment is impeccable as jade was prized above silver and gold. Myths and Lore: In ancient Egypt and China, jade was used a talisman to promote good luck and strong bonds of friendship. It was also believed to protect the wearer from malevolent spirits and promote a long life.

Jade is said to protect the heart, kidneys, spleen and thyroid and in general to strengthen the body. Symbolically jade was associated with human virtues because of its hardness, durability, and beauty. It was also esteemed by the Chinese for its lovely musical qualities, its delicate, translucent colors, and its purported safeguarding powers. Since ancient times, songs, poems and stories have been composed about the virtues of jade, playing upon its otherworldly and heavenly qualities. Facts: The most prized form of jade is known as imperial jade and comes from Myanmar. It is a rich emerald green color. Jade most commonly appears in mottled green and white. The range of greens is light to dark, creamy, grayish, and varies according to location. Jade can occasionally be found in the lovely but unusual colors of yellow, pink, purple, and black. Jade is the mystical birthstone for March and for the zodiac sign Virgo. As a wedding anniversary gift it is associated with the 12th, 30th and 35th years.

Although much is known of the multitude of uses of this elusive and beautiful stone over the past millennia, there are still many mysteries remaining which archeologists and historians have yet to solve. While hundreds of carved jade “congs” have been found in numerous ancient sites, dating back many thousands of years, their exact religious significance remains unknown. The square carved on the outside, tubular and round on the inside artifacts are suggested to represent the connection of the earth, (square) and heavens, (round). We still, to this day, say, “the four corners of the earth,” so perhaps we are closer than we realize to solving the mystery of jade, the essence of heaven and earth. We invite you to look over the vast assortment of beguiling jade handmade jewelry by Stephanie White and see if adding this celestial stone to your wardrobe will create a touch of heaven on earth for you. Article by: Diane Weisbeck FYI: Why is jade so important to the Chinese? | South China Morning Post South China Morning Post FYI: Why is jade so important to the Chinese? FYI: Why is jade so important to the Chinese?

PUBLISHED : Sunday, 20 April, 2008, 12:00am UPDATED : Sunday, 20 April, 2008, 12:00am Print Email Gold may be the most coveted of metals, and it's even more precious these days, with concerns about the strength of the global financial system pushing the world's de facto reserve currency up to about US$1,000 an ounce. But even at its current high value, the Chinese will never hold gold in the same esteem as they do jade. China's affinity for the smooth stone goes back a long way - to about 3400BC in fact, when tribes were digging up deposits in the Yangtze River Delta to fashion into everything from weapons to cooking implements. Probably initially prized for its hardness and resilience, its beauty soon saw the stone take on a more ceremonial role. Various myths about jade's mystical origins - some said it was fashioned by thunder and captured the force of the heavens, others that it was crystallised moonlight - encouraged artisans throughout China and what is now Korea to shape it into offerings, statuettes and pendants.

Worship of the stone arguably reached its apex in jade burial suits: odd, robotic-looking contraptions comprising panels that were wired together to house the bodies of particularly wealthy Han noblemen. The suits were based on the by-then widespread belief that jade didn't just look good, but boasted magical abilities to ward off decay and disease. Its virtues were extolled by sages such as Confucius, who claimed it embodied wisdom, energy and truth to such an extent that it was as precious as 'the Tao itself'. The much-vaunted substance appeared everywhere, from the mouths of opium pipes (to prolong the longevity of the smoker) to dining implements (to transfer energy to the food) and the palms of politicians (jade talismans were said to help the holder through tricky negotiations). While jade liquor is no longer in fashion and few people cram jade pieces into the mouths of corpses any more, a healthy respect for the stone remains. Jade bracelets, which are believed to be effective in combatting rheumatism, are worn by many people to this day. All jade may be good but some types are better than others.

In ancient China, the most common indigenous variety was nephrite, a calcium-rich mineral that can have a greenish tint but is nearly as often yellow, brown or milky white. Royals far preferred jadeite, which China began importing from Myanmar (Burma) in the early 19th century - but is also found in New Zealand, Russia and Canada. Gem-quality jadeite commonly comes in white or deep green but blue, crimson and black varieties have also been discovered. Thanks partially to Chinese demand, rare imperial green jade, a translucent stone that's been compared to fine emerald, is the most expensive gem in the world, worth more per gram than diamonds. But the Chinese are far from the only people to see the mineral as special. The English word 'jade' comes from the Spanish phrase piedra de ijada, or 'loin stone', so named because it was believed keeping a chunk of jade close prevented aches and pains in a highly sensitive part of the body. New Zealand's Maori consider jade a taonga, or 'treasure', and regularly worked it into necklaces and weapons. Jade was also one of the most important materials in the rituals of Mesoamerican peoples such as the Olmec and Maya.

With so many civilisations holding jade in such high regard, maybe there is something to the many beliefs that surround it. A Jade Primer – Chinese Antiques Authentication Appraisals & Valuations by Irv Graham Some scholars have suggested that Chinese civilization was built around jade. Known as the “Stone of Heaven,” it was more valuable than gold or gems in imperial China and was considered a bridge between heaven and earth. Prized for both its beauty and symbolic value, jade has traditionally been worn as talisman by Chinese and shaped into a variety of objects. Jade comes in two forms: nephrite and jadeite, both of which are prized for their hardness, firmness and ability to be carved and the luster they generate that creates an appearance of transparency. Nephrite and jadeite are two chemically different and distinct materials. Both are technically rocks not gems, since they are mineral aggregates rather than crystals. Natural stones passed off as jade include chrysoprase, jasper, serpentine and soapstone. Jade Symbolism in China Revered for its hardness and texture, jade symbolizes the cosmos, wealth, political power, security, good health and strength.

In China, jade cicadas have been placed on the tongue of the dead to speed resurrection; jade pigs symbolize prosperity, jade disks represent heaven and a piece of jade enclosed within a square signifies the earth. Jade Colors Most jade has a bright green color associated with jade jewelry, though it comes in a host of other colors such as white, black, yellow, red, blue, and lavender depending on the chemical composition of the stone. Variations of iron content in jadeite can produce brownish-red, dark green or lavender hues. White translucent jade is highly prized. Green jadeite gets its green color from the element chromium. The most prized jadeite is translucent, emerald green jade known as “Imperial jade.” Devious sellers can dye jade a richer color of green by heating it slowly to 212̊F and soaking it in chromium salts for two hours. The dye penetrates the cracks between the jade crystals and buyers are easily fooled. Good “dye jobs” are hard to detect. With bad ones the color seems to ‘float’ on the surface of the stone, indicating the dye has not penetrated deeply.

Neolithic Chinese Jade Pieces In the Neolithic period (5000-2000 B.C.), priests and military men used jade pieces in the worship of deities and ancestors. The most common ornaments round pi discs and square ts’ung tubes symbolized the round heaven and the square earth. Jade ornaments in ancient China were used as authority objects and emblems of power. Ancient Chinese believed that their ancestors originated with God and communicated through supernatural beings and symbols, whose images were placed on jade ornaments. Ancient shaman most likely used jade ornaments with divine markings to command mystical forces and communicate with gods and ancestors. Jade was also used in ancient burial ceremonies. In ancient times jade was wedged or cracked from a stone and most likely shaped by artisans using grind stones. Metal tools had not yet been invented. It took a considerable amount of time to shape, polish and engrave the elaborate pieces displayed in museums. Most are though to have been created for royalty or nobility. Shang and Zhou Jades Shang Dynasty (1700-1100 B.C.) circular jades are generally similar to northwestern circular jades.

Later Shang pieces featured raised inner rims and thin outer edges, sets of carved concentric circles and images of curling dragons, fish, tigers and birds. During the Zhou Dynasty (1100-221 B.C.) jade pendants were very popular and the level of their craftsmanship was unmatched in any future period. During the Shang and Zhou dynasties jade objects were important objects in ceremonies and rituals. In the Western Zhou period (1100-700 B.C.) the type and number of circular jades used in ceremonies represented a person’s social status. Circular jades from this period were often cut into symmetrical pieces to form sets of two or three pieces. Circular jades made during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States period (722-221 B.C.) were smaller than those from the Shang and early Zhou periods. They contained carved images of curling chih dragons, grain seeds, and cloud patterns. During this period circular jades were commonly worn by people. Materials other than jade, such as agate and glass were used to make “jade” ornaments.

Jade Suits and Pieces from Han Dynasty During the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-220 A.D.), the imperial family held jade in great esteem. While alive they wore jade pendants and ingested jade powder. When they died were covered and stuffed with jade. Banners and tomb tiles were imprinted the round pi disk, which was believed to assist the deceased reach the next world quicker. In the Han period, jade objects were believed to possess auspicious meaning, their uses and functions multiplied. Circular jades—often containing images of twin-bodied animals, mask patterns, grain seeds, rush mat designs, curling chih dragons, and round tipped nipples decorate buildings. Engraved dragon and phoenix patterns were popular in the Han imperial court. The greatest expressions of the quest for immortality were the jade suits that appeared around the 2nd century B.C. About 40 of these jade suits have been unearthed. The jade suit of the 2nd century B.C. Prince Liu Sheng unearthed near Chengdu, Sichuan province was made of 2,498 jade plates sewn together with silk and gold wire. Liu Shen was buried with his consort who was equally well clad in a jade suit.

Sufficient room was made for the prince’s pot belly. Jade Pieces from the Tang and Sung Dynasties During the Six Dynasties and Tang Dynasty, jade artistry went into a period of decline. Stones similar to jade but not jade itself were used in ceremonies. The only jade artifacts from this period that have survived are items like combs, belt plaques, hairpins and pendants. From the Sung and Ming dynasties onward, jade artistry recovered its former grandeur thanks mainly to the emperors, who used jade in official ceremonies, and scholars, who had studied the importance of jade in Shang and Zhou dynasty rituals. The imperial family and the scholar class prized jade objects that were both beautiful and practical. Jade was fashioned into flowers, birds, people, landscapes and other subjects that were also featured in painting and poetry. Artist tried to craft pieces that incorporated the natural shape of jade stones, which were usually river pebbles. The resulting shapes had auspicious meanings. Jade Pieces from the Qing Dynasty Jade pieces from the Qing imperial court were characterized by their impressive size, neatness and symmetry. Common motifs included dragons, emblems of the emperor, various auspicious symbols, and imperial inscriptions and marks.

These jade pieces were often put on sandalwood pedestals or kept in special cases and boxes. During the early Qing Dynasty, jade from Xianjiang was carved into elaborate floral designs, shallow reliefs the thickness of paper and ornaments inlaid with colored glass or gold and silver thread. Jadeite carving really took off in China under the Qianlong Emperor (1736-96) who preferred the varied translucent colors of jadeite to the opaque “chicken bone” jade and “mutton-fat” nephrite that was prized before him. Jadeite from the Yunnan Province and northern Burma was imported into China in large quantities in the 19th century and became prized above all other kinds of jade. Jade Business in China To determine the value of the jade a small “window” is cut into the skin of the boulder. Buyers use flashlights and spotlights to try and determine the depth and translucence of the color. One buyer told Smithsonian magazine, “Even the best appraiser can see only 70 percent of the value of the stones.

He can see the quality of color but not quantity of the color.” Another buyer, with 21 years experience, said, “You need a good memory, because you must study every piece you buy and remember how the crust of the rough looked, and the color distribution when it was cut. Then, if you see a similar stone, you apply that knowledge. I often recall a stone I saw ten years ago.” In many places jade is still changed hands using an ancient Chinese ritual to keep the bidding price secret in which the buyer holds the jade he is bidding for in one hand and holds hands with the seller underneath a cloth with his other hand. The buyer only speaks the words for “hundred” or “thousand” and makes a signal with his hand under the cloth to express a number between one and ten. If a buyer extends two fingers under the cloth, for example, and shouts “thousand” he is making a bid for “2000.” Related Post Blog - Jade: An Intriguing Stone Blog Jade: An Intriguing Stone Jade: An Intriguing Stone Rona recently unveiled these three new ring designs , all with jade. Their debut garnered many compliments and much enthusiasm.

Customers honed right in on the rings and identified the shiny dark green stones immediately. My interest was piqued and I wanted to find out more. The Two Forms of Jade I already knew that there are two different kinds of jade: nephrite and jadeite. (According to Wikipedia and other sources, it was not until the 19th century that jade was determined to be two different minerals.) I learned that jadeite measures between 6.0 and 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, and nephrite between 6.0 and 6.5, meaning that nephrite is slightly softer than jadeite. But nephrite is tougher, less brittle, making it less inclined to break when being carved. (This was of particular value in prehistoric times, when it was used to carve weapons.) Jadeite is considered the rarer form of jade, making it pricier. Colors Jade is usually thought of as a green stone, and both nephrite and jadeite are found in many shades of green. But nephrite can also be a creamy white (known as "mutton-fat" in China); this color of jade is considered very valuable.

Jadeite can be found in a wide array of colors, including violet, red, pink, orange, brown, black, and gray. The most prized color of jade is a bright emerald-green jadeite, also known as imperial jade. Uses Interest in jade spans many centuries, dating back at least as far as 4000 B.C. in the Neolithic age. Both forms of jade were used from prehistoric times to carve a variety of objects from buttons and beads to weapons, decorative and ceremonial items, jewelry, sculpture, and full-body burial suits (in keeping with the ancient Chinese belief that jade would confer immortality). Jade is also considered to have musical value and has been used to make wind chimes. As well, jade was also believed to have supernatural powers, and objects were carefully handed down from generation to generation, and also placed in tombs. One of the most common uses of jade is the carved bi, a flat jade disc with a circular hole in the center. The bi is said to signify heaven; it was used in funeral ceremonies and has been found in tombs. It can be used as an ornament, worn on a string or chain, or carried in a pocket.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic medals had a jade bi on the reverse side. According to an article on the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) website, "as early as 3000 B.C. jade was known in China as 'yu,' the 'royal gem.' In the long history of the art and culture of the enormous Chinese empire, jade has always had a very special significance, roughly comparable with that of gold and diamonds in the West." And while jade is usually associated with China, it was also used in prehistoric and historic India and Korea, as well as New Zealand--where it was and still is very popular among the Maori people--Southeast Asia, and pre-Columbian Mesoamerica , where it was considered more valuable than gold. Where Does It Come From? Nephrite has been mined in China, New Zealand, Russia, Guatemala, and the Swiss Alps. Dark green nephrite jade, also called Canada jade, is found in western Canada. The beautiful dark green jade in the rings that Rona just introduced comes from British Columbia, which is the main source of nephrite today; many of China's nephrite mines are now depleted.

Canada jade Jadeite can be found in China, Russia, and Guatemala. But the finest jadeite comes from Burma (Myanmar), and Rona recently procured several jadeite stones from there. Below is a photo of some of them. I was also interested to learn that in Lantian, in China's Shaanxi province, "white and greenish nephrite jade is found . . . as pebbles and boulders in the rivers flowing from the Kun-Lun mountain range northward into the Takla-Makan desert area." Given Rona's interest in river pebbles, I found it intriguing that jade itself can be found in Chinese river pebbles! Collecting jade in the White Jade River at Khotan in 2011 Photo by John Hill Meanings Perhaps because jade has been part of humankind for so many eras, and throughout so much of the world, it has many different meanings. The word jade itself comes from the Spanish term piedra de ijada or "loin stone," because it was said to cure ailments of the loins and kidneys.

Jade has been said to be a symbol of the good, the beautiful, and the precious and that it embodies the Confucian virtues of wisdom, justice, compassion, modesty, and courage. According to the ICA article, "In ancient Egypt, jade was admired as the stone of love, inner peace, harmony and balance. In other regions and cultures too, jade was regarded as a lucky or protective stone; yet it had nowhere near the significance that it had in Asia," where it has been associated with beauty, purity, nobility, perfection, constancy, durability, power, and immortality. Gemstone therapy asserts that jade is a powerful, healing stone that encourages creativity. A Real Connection After reading up on jade, it struck me that this beautiful and captivating stone is part of our collective consciousness--which would explain why Rona's new jade rings were so well received. We'll keep you posted on what she does with the new jadeite! Sources--and Further Reading: Chinese Jade: Types, Appreciation, Maintenance Chinese Jade General Introduction Jade Dragon Jade has a history in China of at least four thousands years.

Unknown to some, it is found contained within the development of religion and civilization, having moved from the use of decoration on to the others such as the rites of worship and burial. Although other materials like gold, silver and bronze were also used, none of these have ever exceeded the spiritual position that jade has acquired in peoples' minds - it is associated with merit, morality, grace and dignity. In the funeral objects of the people of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - 24 AD), for example, we can see only high officials were buried with jade articles. Jade has influenced all walks of life. In ancient times, people expressed abstract notions with concrete patterns of Chinese character, which were influenced by Taoism and Buddhism. Jade craftworks were among the most precious and luxurious ones; people wore and decorated rooms to indicate loyalty, elegance, beauty, and eternity. The most popular patterns were: peach (longevity), mandarin duck (love), deer (high official ranks), bat (blessing), fish (affluence), double phoenixes (thriving), bottle (safety), lotus (holiness), bamboo (lofty conduct), and fan (benevolence), etc.

In Chinese, jade is pronounced as 'Yu', and most words related to moral include this word such as 'Unpolished jade never shines,' indicating that one cannot be a useful person if he is not educated. It also implied honor and conviction. Many girls in ancient times were also named with jade to reflect the love of their parents. One of the Four Beauties in Chinese history, Yang Yuhuan, the beloved concubine of Emperor Xuanzong in the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907), was their representative. Yang is her surname and her given name Yuhuan means simply 'jade ring'. Jade Garment Knitted with Fine Gold Wire People believed that jade was the expression of the most beautiful stone. A beautiful piece can be more valuable than fifteen cities and a man's life. Historic records tell of a story about a stanch man named Bian He who had a piece of jade called 'Heshi Bi' which was said to be the most priceless treasure in history. However, when Bian He discovered the piece, it was hidden under the veil of the coarse stone in which it laid. He did not dare to carve it but instead dedicated it to the King of State Chu.

He never knew that he would pay two legs for his dedication, for the king did not know the real value and cut Bian He's legs off. He cried for three days and nights. Afterwards, the new king heard of him and wanted to see whether it was as precious as he said. When it was cut, all were startled by the delicate quality. Very soon, it became a national treasure and was called 'Heshi Bi'. So precious was the stone that it even became a source of conflict between the Qin State and Zhao State. Jadeite As early as the 16th century, it was believed to be a precious and hard jade with healing qualities for the human stomach and kidneys. Since it was brought into China during the early Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911), it had been doted on greatly. It contains an iron component which appears red, chromium that appears green, and many other colored types. Known as the 'king of jade', it is usually a more expensive type. Nephrite Jade Jade Bear Nephrite's robustness is due to the fact it contains tremolite.

It also can be divided into several sub-classifications according to color: white, grey, green, topaz, and black jade. In China, the most reputable jade producing area is Hetian in Xinjiang Province. Hetian jade is so hard that it can scratch glass. It has often been found in very huge pieces. An example of this is the huge jade hill on which the grand scene of Yu the Great leading people to control flood is elaborately carved. It was 5,350 kg weight (11,795 pounds) when it was completed. Now this artwork is displayed in the Forbidden City. Serpentine jade, or Xiu yu in Chinese, is mainly from Xiuyan County in Liaoning Province. Made of many different ingredients, it takes on various appearances: white, yellow, light yellow, pink, green, dark green, light green and so on. This type is usually coloured in various shades of green. Usually serpentine jade is semi-transparent or even opaque like wax. Lantian jade is produced in Lantian County, north of Xian in Shaanxi Province.

It was also among the most charming ancient jades, for its rigidity made it easier to be carved into decorations and jewelry by our ancestors. The hue is uneven in colors of yellow or light green. Jade Bracelets Nanyang County in Henan Province is famous for its abundant Nanyang jade. The ore district is located on an isolated 200 meter high hill, called Dushan Hill (thus its other name of 'Dushan jade'). It is distinctive for its whimsicality. Among the Nanyang jade artworks, you will find rare purple, blue and red ones. Appreciation and Maintenance Experts believe that, although more expensive, diamonds and gold cannot be compared with jade - it is animated with a soul. They often buy to collect their favorite jade artworks, while people with little knowledge may buy coarse works. To obtain a real and choice jade article, you should take pains to learn and appreciate it. The criteria lie in the brightness of color and luster, compactness of inner structure, and the delicacy of the craftwork. For example, nephrite creates an oily luster and jadeite creates a vitreous luster.

Tiny cracks can lower its value; on real one, air bubbles cannot be seen; the more lenitive the higher quality of jade, and so on. Having purchased a jade article is just half the process of collecting. It is like a child that needs constant care. Enthusiasts need to work more to maintain this artwork, or blemishes may appear. First, avoid bumping on hard surfaces as it is delicate. Although sometimes a crack cannot be seen by the naked eye, the interior structure may have been damaged. As time goes on, it will appear and reduce the value of the piece. Second, protect it from dust or greasy dirt. If tainted, they must be scrubbed with a soft brush and light suds and washed with clean water. Third, when left unused it is best to store the it in a case or box to protect it from being bumped. Fourth, it should be kept away from perfume, perspiration or chemicals. Its brightness risks corrosion, especially emerald and other high quality jade, so it is better to clean it with a soft cloth after wearing it. Fifth, do not expose it to sunlight for a long time, or it may expand and the quality will change slightly.

Finally, jade has certain water content so keep it in an area of humidity to protect it from over-drying. Jewellery and traditional beliefs | 中国制造 Made in China 中国制造 Made in China Production and Consumption in the People's Republic Search by anais paulard Today, China is known for being one of the largest producers of pearls. It is a very ancient artistic tradition, but China began to use precious metals relatively late. Rare references for ornaments date from the Tang period (618-906). At the beginning of the Sung Dynasty (960-1279), the Chinese showed great interest in jewellery influenced by Persia and India. Only toward of the end of the 11th century, we can see local characteristics. The most important type of jewel was worn on the head like tiaras and diadems. We can see many influences in Chinese jewels from the Himalaya region (Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan), where the traditional skills were trekked from village to village, tribe to tribe. The jewellery traditions of the Far East reflect this immense environmental, cultural and economic diversity. However, many jewellery traditions were stopped during the time of communism, where personal adornment was severely criticised by the government.

Only official badges and medals were authorized, in order to show one’s pride and loyalty to the party. Since the end of Mao Tse Tung reign, the Chinese have recovered the skills and knowledge to make ancient and traditional jewellery work. Punched work, pierced work, and filigree are characteristics of Chinese jewellery. Their jewellery is seen to provide power and strength to the wearer. Animals were representative and symbolic. For example, the dragon symbolized power and good luck, the goldfish for abundance of gold, the phoenix for good fortune, opportunity and luck, and many others like bird, tiger, monkey, bat, peacock. Clouds, flowers and twigs were also symbols of good luck. Colours and semi precious stones were worn in order to give power, but also to cure some diseases, give longevity, and to be healthy. The most famous stones used for many centuries are coral, turquoise and jade. Hair ornament, gilded silver, turquoise, coral and seed pearls. Turquoise is seen as a “living stone” that shares the ultimate fate of the mortal that wear it. Its colour symbolizes water, air and sky. This stone can counteract devil forces and make the wearer brave and invulnerable.

In addition, seeing it in a dream may bring you good luck. Coral is supposed to bring good luck, strength to women, and favourable effects on menstruation. The most desired variety is the Italian coral. It was brought by the Silk Road and was only worn by the wealthiest class. Marco Polo noted that Tibetans ranked coral among the precious stones and used it to adorn the necks of their women and idols. Turquoise and coral were used to make amulet boxes in silver, gold or copper. Hidden spells or prayers in the boxes were used to appease evil spirits, while the decoration was symbolic to strengthen power content. amulet box made with turquoise and coral stones The blue turquoise colour was also given by enamel or by the very traditional Chinese process: using Kingfisher feathers. The technique, called tian-tsui, means “dotting with kingfishers” that involves using glue to adhere the feathers onto vermeil, or silver. The Kingfisher bird is highly esteemed by the Chinese for its colour and celebrated in poetry and song by Chinese from ancient times. Over the centuries, the Kingfisher’s blue colour feather became highly prized and extremely sought after as an inlay in decorative arts.

Kingfisher feather were used by the Chinese to denote status, wealth and royalty. Today that tradition has disappeared; many birds were killed during the Qing dynasty just in order to collect their feathers and the skill of tian tsui has disappeared as well. But we can still see very wonderful pieces in museums. hair ornament made with kingfisher feathers chinese necklace and earings made with coral beads and kingfisher feathers This portrait of the wife of a high dignitary is painted on silk. It was made during the 1st Ming dynasty (early 15th century). She’s wearing a traditional headdress, which constituted with phoenix, clouds and flowers. The red beads were probably coral and the clouds in blue are made with kingfisher feathers to symbolize air and sky. We can also see turquoise beads on the pendants and pearls. Turquoise, coral and pearls are very famous in Chinese jewellery. But the most famous stone is obviously the Jade. Not only for jewellery making, also for decorative objects, dishes, vases, hair comb… We found utilization of jade as jewel since Palaeolithic (hunter-gatherers) period with perforated beads at Zhoukoudian.

But it’s during the Neolithic period the “art of jade” have started, caring in the Zhejiang province (5000 BC). The massive production of finely polished pendants and beads were being produced in South-East China during the 3rd millennium before Christ. In ancient time, Jade was most expensive than gold. For example during the Imperial China, the first prize for an athlete was jade, after gold for the second place and at the third place ivory. Jade often has a green colour, but the most rare and luxurious one is the white jade. Many colours can be found: pink, orange or light brown, blue, black. The different colours are created by different types of chemical components: the green jade contains chromium salts, the blue-green jade contains cobalt salts, the black jade contains titanium salts, and the pink jade contains salts of iron and manganese. traditional jade bangle made in various colours In ancient China, jade was used in rituals and sacrifices. According to ancient Chinese beliefs, the sky was round and the earth was square. A jade ornament with a round hole in the middle, called “bi”, symbolized the sky. A jewel of long hollow jade with rectangular sides, called “cong”, symbolized the earth.

The bi was often placed with the corpse before burial as jade cicada was used to symbolize rebirth. China, late Eastern Zhou dynasty or early Western Han dynasty 3rd – 2nd century BC Diameter: 5 1/8 inches, 13 cm Thickness: 1/8 inch, 0.4 cm In the Han Dynasty, some leaders were buried in suits made entirely of jade. It was made of many pieces with various shapes, usually square, that were held together by thin threads of precious metal or silk, like the shroud of King of Chu. These extremely expensive structures were reserved only for elites. It is estimated that it took several years to achieve this kind of ritual costume that consists of 2000 to 5000 pieces! The Chinese believed that jade had magical properties and protected the corpse from decomposition. jade shroud made with white jade and gold thread, Han dynasty. Jade is still being used today, although the techniques have changed with technology the jade objects as talismans, “bi” or decorative objects are still used in Chinese culture, and popular with tourists as souvenirs. Share this:

Question: What green stone was prized in ancient China, and used to make burial suits for royalty?
Answer: Jade