Jade A Study in Chinese Archaeology and Religion

The two minerals nephrite and jadeite, popularly comprised under the name jade, belong to the hardest and most cherished materials of which primitive man availed himself in shaping his chisels, hatchets, ornaments, amulets and many other implements. Such objects, partially of considerable antiquity, have been found in many parts of the world--in Asia, New Zealand, in prehistoric Europe and America. -- Introduction.