Chinese Jade Art

History

A historical dictionary from 200 A.D. defines jade as the fairest of stones, encompassing the virtues of charity, courage, wisdom and longevity. The art of carving the stone with symbolic designs is seen in examples dating as far back as the Han Dynasty in 206 B.C. Animal deities such as the dragon and phoenix were often depicted. Since ancient times, jade has been used for personal ornamentation as well as for utilitarian objects, such as cups and vessels, and grave furnishings.

Jade is mined and found in nature in variety of vivid, lustrous colors ranging from milky white to black. The deepest emerald green known as imperial jade is highly regarded. Lavender jade is especially popular in jewelry and has violet undertones. Two distinct gems, nephrite and jadeite, are more rare. Both are considered to be "zhen yu," or genuine jade. Value is determined by intensity of color, texture, clarity and transparency.

Ancient artisans used abrasive rubbing methods to carve the gemstone into jadeware. Material such as quartz sand that is barely harder than jade was used to wear the surface down gradually to create smooth areas and patterns. The carver then painstakingly progressed to harder abrasives, utilizing carving tools from nature. About 1300 B.C., bronze tools became available, and small tools and files made of iron were used for carving intricate designs by 475 B.C.

Collectors always have been intrigued by jade, from its large sculptures to jewelry. The value of antique jade is defined by the date of the carving, the provenance of the piece, the artisan's skill and notoriety, and the quality of the stone. Chinese jade is the most ancient, however, many cultures have jade antiquities. The website of the Consulate General of The People's Republic of China in Los Angeles reports, "Due to the high value of ancient jadeware, there is an equally long tradition of fake jadeware, which looks very much like the real thing." A professional appraisal and opinion on authenticity is recommended when collecting jade.

Jade is still highly sought, especially in China and Hong Kong. Many Chinese families believe it brings good fortune and pass pieces from one generation to the next. Jade is often given as a gift for a marriage or birth of a child. It is thought that if the gemstone is worn as jewelry, it may become darker as it absorbs bad chi. Ancient designs and motifs are still used, but many highly skilled artisans create stylish, innovative jade pieces, too.