Chinese Agate Bi Pendant

Description

Known from very early Chinese history, flat round discs with center openings, made of precious stones, were used as status symbols for ritual purposes. Our striking pendant is based on a carved jade bi disc in the Museum’s collection from the Liangzhu culture (ca. 2400 B.C.).

18K gold overlay, with red agate. Silk cord. Lobster claw closure. Adjusts from 18''L to 20''L with extender chain.

Art History

These flat, round discs with an opening in the middle are known from China’s remote antiquity. The earliest date from Neolithic times. They are almost always made from jade, the mineral nephrite, which the Chinese hold in the highest esteem among all hard stones. Their function in the Neolithic age remains enigmatic. Considering the rarity of the material, the investment of labor, and the superb workmanship, they are believed to be objects for rituals and also symbols of wealth and prominent social status.