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Jade as a Tool
Jade Axe Head
Neolithic 6000 Years Old
Neolithic 6000 Years Old
History of Jade Significance of Jade in Tool Use European and Asian civilization are well-known for their gemstone culture. Notable cultures such as the Greek, Roman, as well as the Chinese used gems as barter
and as symbols of wealth and status. Prior to that, prehistoric people in Europe and Asia used jade to make axes, scrapers and other miscellaneous weapons because it was found to be suitable for tough work. This was due to the extreme toughness and strength of jade. In fact, ancient European civilization mirrored the ancient Chinese civilization, although to a lesser degree, in its regard for these "stones of heaven".
Though Jade culture had existed in Ancient Europe, jade was only primarily used as tools and weapons. As the Bronze Age and the Iron Age approached, more suitable materials became available, and the Europeans slowly abandoned the use of Jade. Interestingly enough, the Chinese culture chose to use jade for more ornamental and ritualistic purposes once the need for jade as tools declined.
The manufacture of Chinese Jade articles were already highly developed by the Shang Dynasty. (1751 B.C - 1111 B.C) By the end of the Zhou Dynasty (11th Century B.C - 222 B.C) and the beginning of the Han Dynasty (206 B.C - 220 A.D), chinese jades reached a second peak in their development. Craftsman had at their disposal , more advanced tools and efficient methods of polishing jade and created masterpieces.
Beyond maintaining its historical role, jade artistry has been further developed with creativity and skill, and remains an eternal symbol of China's magnificent civilization.
and as symbols of wealth and status. Prior to that, prehistoric people in Europe and Asia used jade to make axes, scrapers and other miscellaneous weapons because it was found to be suitable for tough work. This was due to the extreme toughness and strength of jade. In fact, ancient European civilization mirrored the ancient Chinese civilization, although to a lesser degree, in its regard for these "stones of heaven".
Though Jade culture had existed in Ancient Europe, jade was only primarily used as tools and weapons. As the Bronze Age and the Iron Age approached, more suitable materials became available, and the Europeans slowly abandoned the use of Jade. Interestingly enough, the Chinese culture chose to use jade for more ornamental and ritualistic purposes once the need for jade as tools declined.
The manufacture of Chinese Jade articles were already highly developed by the Shang Dynasty. (1751 B.C - 1111 B.C) By the end of the Zhou Dynasty (11th Century B.C - 222 B.C) and the beginning of the Han Dynasty (206 B.C - 220 A.D), chinese jades reached a second peak in their development. Craftsman had at their disposal , more advanced tools and efficient methods of polishing jade and created masterpieces.
Beyond maintaining its historical role, jade artistry has been further developed with creativity and skill, and remains an eternal symbol of China's magnificent civilization.
Jade: History and Myth
Jade is listed as the Mystical birthstone for the month of March and the birthstone for the Sun Sign Virgo. See the birthstone tables for additional references to this stone. Jade may be given as a gem on the 12th 30th and 35th wedding anniversary.Jade is the term applied to forms of jadeite and nephrite. These minerals are similar in appearance and a distinction between the two often was not made. But, because of its more intense color and translucency, jadeite now brings higher prices and is thought to be the true jade
The most valuable form of jade is known as imperial jade and comes from Myanmar, it is an emerald green color. Jades also appear in mottled green and white, and the rarer colors of yellow, pink, purple, and black. The range of greens are light to dark, creamy, grayish, and also white. A leek green variety called "Russian Jade" is found near Lake Baikal in Russia.
Jade is also found in Mexico, and Central and South America. Because of its smooth even texture, jade has long been a preferred material for carving and is usually cut into cabochons for jewelry.
The color of the stone is the most important factor but translucency and texture are important criteria determining price. Jade is a 6 1/2-7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties:
Thought to protect the kidneys, liver, spleen, heart, larynx, thymus, and thyroid. Ancient people thought that wearing jade would increase body strength and add longevity. Jade is an ancient symbol of love and virtue.
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