This is a gorgeous piece of jade that I found in China. It is naturally a lighter green and a brighter green. The artist who carved it has used the two shades of green to emphasize the raised dragon he has carved out of the brighter green part of the jade. On the reverse side which is the lighter part of the jade, is a carved bat. The jade pendant is 2” long by 1 1/2” wide. I have beaded this wonderful piece with 12 mm natural Burmese green jade beads that are similar in color to the carved jade. The necklace is 18” around and is finished with a large sterling silver clasp.

The dragon is the imperial emblem of the Emperors in China, especially from the from the Han period where their coat of arms shows two dragons fighting for the fiery pearl. The dragon is a supernatural creature and is the symbol of power, strength, wisdom and goodness. It represents the utmost in accomplishment: good luck and a successful life. It is also believed to be the guardian of hidden treasures. It represents the spirit of growth and change.

The bat is symbolic of happiness, good fortune, prosperity and longevity. When something is portrayed upside down it means it has arrived, so the common portrayal of an upside-down bat is symbolic of good fortune that has arrived. It is one of the best symbols of good luck.

Chinese royalty has worn jade for centuries. It has been used since the Neolithic times for tools, weaponry, amulets, vases and figurines because of its hardness. It is believed to be a spiritual stone and has been called the jewel of heaven. It represents the five principal virtues: charity, modesty, courage, justice and wisdom. From cloudy white to golden brown, light to dark green, to rare lavender, jade is the most highly prized Asian gemstone. Jade has been regarded as the most precious stone for thousands of years. It is believed to protect the wearer and ensure good luck and good health as well as to increase life span.