JewelryShells

Jade’s Evolution in Chinese Culture: From Emperors to Everyday Life

History of Jade

China, as the sole survivor of the four ancient civilizations, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the usage of jade. Dating back twenty to thirty thousand years ago, in the late Paleolithic period, jade was initially perceived as an ordinary stone, fulfilling practical purposes as tools. However, its exquisite beauty gradually captivated people’s attention, leading them to explore the natural lines and warm colors inherent in jade. Thus began the transformation of jade from utilitarian objects to cherished household items and ornamental pieces.

                                                                                             Dagger with jade hilt, India, 17th–18th century.

Throughout different eras, including the Xia (BC 2070-1600) and Shang (BC 1600-1046) Dynasties, as well as the Spring and Autumn (BC 770-476) and Warring States periods, jade was exclusively reserved for the use of kings. This changed when Qinshihuang, the first Emperor of China, unified the nation. The Chinese character for jade bears a striking resemblance to the character for “king,” solidifying jade’s association with imperial power. During this era, jade became an emblem exclusive to the regal elite, symbolizing their status and authority. From the Qin Dynasty (BC 221) to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), jade continued to represent rank, status, and power, accessible only to the royal family.

 

However, with the advent of the Song Dynasty and subsequent periods, jade embarked on a new phase of its evolution. It transitioned from being the privileged domain of the nobility to becoming accessible to ordinary people. This marked an unprecedented era of prosperity for jade culture, as it became a part of everyday life for individuals across social strata.

 

Under the patronage of emperors, jade experienced a surge in craftsmanship, resulting in the creation of various exquisite objects. Cups, plates, bottles, ornamental crafts, belts, crowns, and jewelry were meticulously crafted from this noble stone. Jade, renowned for its symbolism of power and good luck, also played a significant role in the fashioning of sacrificial and ritual objects. Today, jade is primarily used in jewelry, especially in the form of beads. The tradition of wearing jade has persisted for thousands of years, embodying profound meanings such as peace, health, wealth, good luck, hope, morality, beauty, justice, and energy.

Jade Beads for Jewelry Making

At JewelryShells factory, jade stones are transformed into earrings, bracelets, pendants, and more. The versatility of jade allows it to be shaped into various forms, with fish representing prosperity, donut shapes symbolizing health, and bamboo shapes signifying promotion. Jade plays a pivotal role in enhancing both the material and spiritual aspects of people’s lives. Not only cherished by the Chinese, jade has gained admirers from diverse countries worldwide. This extraordinary stone is imbued with immense power, encompassing love, courage, wealth, peace, and health. It is also believed to possess healing properties. In the hearts of the Chinese people, no other stone can rival the place held by jade.

Where is Jade found?

Beyond China, jade is a precious mineral found in various parts of the world. The following are some commonly encountered types of jade and their respective origins:

  • Burmese Jade (Myanmar Jadeite): Myanmar stands out as one of the world’s most renowned sources of jade, particularly prized for its high-quality jadeite.
  • Chinese Jade: China boasts abundant and diverse jade resources, including Hetian jade, Dushan jade, Xinjiang jade, Yunnan jade, and more.
  • Canadian Jade: Canada is among the largest global producers of jade, known for its superior quality white and green jade.
  • Australian Jade: Australia primarily produces green nephrite jade and turquoise, commonly referred to as Australian jade.
  • American Jade: Jade can be found in various regions of the United States, including California, Nevada, and Idaho, with California jade being especially well-known.
  • Russian Jade: The Siberian region of Russia yields jade, with Russian jadeite nephrite being the most famous variety.
  • New Zealand Jade: New Zealand holds great significance as an important source of jade, featuring greenstone known as Pounamu, which holds a profound cultural importance in Māori culture.

In addition to the aforementioned origins, other countries also produce jade, including Mexico, Brazil, India, Japan, South Korea, and more. Each source has its own unique characteristics and features, providing a wide range of choices for jade enthusiasts to find their preferred type.

FAQ

What does the jade stone symbolize?

Jade is believed to bring luck. Jade is thought to have protective, lucky-charm energy. That’s why you’ll often see jade statues used in feng shui, and why babies in Asian cultures are often gifted jade bracelets or necklaces when they’re born.

Is real jade only green?

 

Natural jade has colors of green, lavender, red, orange, yellow, brown, white, black, and gray. The most popular color is green.

Who is JewelryShells?

JewelryShells is a China gemstone manufacturer with factory at Ketang Jewelry Town, jewelry making supplies and jewelry wholesaler and manufacturer. With over 20 years gemstone manufacturing experience, JewelryShells is the expert of gemstone industry.

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