Jade


 
Jade, one of humanity's oldest treasured stones, has been revered for over 7,000 years. The earliest known jade artifacts date back to Neolithic China, where it was carved into ritual objects and ornaments. Two main types exist: 
- Jadeite (prized in Myanmar/Burma)  
- Nephrite (historically used in China, notably Hetian jade)  

Functions & Symbolism 
1. Spiritual—Ancient cultures believed jade protected the soul, with Chinese tradition associating it with purity and immortality.
2. Status—Reserved for royalty (e.g., Mayan jade masks, Chinese imperial seals).
3. Healing—Traditional medicine attributes detoxifying and balancing properties to jade.
4. Artistic—Carved into jewelry, sculptures, and ritual objects due to its toughness when polished.

"A stone of heaven and earth, bridging the mortal and divine." 


Key terms:
- Nephrite 
- Jadeite
- Ritual cong 
- Mutton-fat jade