Jade stone history in China and all over the world

History of jade dates back as far as several millennia BC when this marvelous stone took a top position in the culture of China. Jade stone origin presumably began in the Neolithic Age, being proved by seven Neolithic period bladed tools made of jade found during excavations in Nanyang county. Scientists suppose that already in the second millennium BC, the Chinese producers reached a high level of crude jade processing methods and knew how to make different exclusive ancient chinese jade jewelry.

It is known that insignia of nobles, magnificent carvings (vases, table sculptures), household and religious items as well as various decorations were carved from Nephrite jade.The art of stone carving in China reached its peak in the 17th-18th centuries characterized by images of various mythological animals (dragon, hydra, unicorn etc.). At that time, bowls, vases, goblets, incense bottles, chess, various table decorations and animal figurines were also made from jade.

In European countries, in particular in Russia, jade stone history is not so vivid as in China, since Nephrite jade was used relatively little, and products made from it generally had simpler (compared to Chinese) designs, even jade jewelry from the famous Faberge firm.In particular, at the Peterhof Lapidary Factory since the middle of the 19th century decorative vases, bowls, writing instruments, paper knives, brooches, etc had been produced. Many pieces of jade from that time are kept in the Hermitage.