This is a very delicately carved natural jade pendant with areas that are cut out and topped with a carved jade dragon that wraps around one side and has areas od golden orange in the jade.  There is a cut out Chinese double happiness symbol in the center.  The pendant is 2" by 1 1/2".  It made perfect sense to use 12 mm carved jade dragon beads to complement this piece.  I have interspersed them with small faceted citrine beads to pick up the golden in the carved green jade.  The necklace is 19" long and is finished with a 18k gold vermeil clasp.

The dragon is the imperial emblem of the Emperors from the Han period, the coat of arms being two dragons contesting the fiery pearl. The dragon, a supernatural creature, is the symbol of power, strength, wisdom and goodness and represents the utmost in attainment: good luck and success in life. It is also believed to be the guardian of hidden treasures. It represents the spirit of growth and change.

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.