This pendant is made with a round carnelian piece that is carved in a cut out pattern with two dragons facing each other.  In  front of the carnelian piece hangs a beautifully carved  very pale green jade fish with red eyes.  I have topped it with a glass lamp work bead that pick up the colors of the carnelian and jade pieces.  The pendant is 1 1/2” wide and drops 2 1/2” from a black natural leather cord that is adjustable, using slip knots, from 15” to 30” so it can be worn a variety of lengths.

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 fish is symbolic of abundance, prosperity, wealth and persistence.  It is also believed to represent an advantage in business.

At one time only nobility owned carnelian and many times they were buried with this stone.  The most highly prized carnelian is a deep red to red-orange color.

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.