Thoughts about Origin and Evolution of Ancient "Jadeite"

Jade is not only a graceful precious gemstone, but also a cultural symbol of Chinese civilization. The history of Chinese jade culture dates back to 8000 years ago, about the same age of Xinglongwa Culture. According to researches, the popular ornament of jadeite from Myanmar actually originates from the Southern Song Dynasty of China, around 800 years ago. However, the concept of "jadeite" at that time probably did not equal to Burmese jadeite. This paper attempt to exam and explore the origin of jadeite and the use of this word under the context of Chinese culture in the past thousands of years of evolution. The word was first coined in spring and Autumn Period to describe a green-feathered bird in south China. During the Han Dynasty the meaning of the word started to lay more emphasis on the emerald colour displayed in the wings of halcyon and was narrowed down to a certain gemstone of the same luster. In the Northern Song Dynasty, the word "jadeite" carried dual significance in its references to both the bird and the gemstone, which was probably more of lapis lazuli. It was not until Wanli Years of the Ming Dynasty when jade from Burma was introduced to the national market. Xu Xiake's Travel Notes writes that concept of modern "jadeite" was invented no later than Chongzhen Years of the end of Ming Dynasty. And jadeite gained admiration and popularity at the national market of gemstone in the late Qing Dynasty.