The Mysterious Origin of the Jade Discs:
In ancient China, dating back to at least 5,000 BC, large stone discs were placed on the bodies of Chinese aristocrats. Their original function still eludes scientists, as does the way in which they were made, considering they were carved out of Jade, an extremely hard rock.
Jade is a precious hardstone made of different silicate minerals and is often used to make vases, jewelry, and other ornaments. It is an extremely difficult material to work with, which makes it perplexing as to why the ancient Neolithic inhabitants of China chose this stone.
Discovered in many elite tombs spanning the Hongshan culture (3800 – 2700 BC), and continuing into the Liangzhu culture (3000 – 2000 BC), the jade stones were placed on the body of the deceased: above the head, on the chest, and below the feet of Chinese elites.
From: Ancient Origins


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