This item is only available for store pick up
location: LG Level, Asia Society Hong Kong Center, 9 Justice Drive, Admiralty, Hong Kong
- Sterling Silver Longevity in Jadeite Bi Cufflinks
- Size: 1.6 (Diameter) cm
- Materials: Jadeite, Sterling silver
- Designed in Hong Kong, Handcrafted in Guangzhou (2003)
The “bi” symbolizes the ear of heaven as well as outstanding moral character.
Jade is associated with the art, culture and history of China to an extent unparalleled by any other material in any other culture. Its history spans at least ten thousand years. It has long been cherished for its multiple functions, diverse shapes, sumptuous decoration, skilful workmanship, and elegant appearance.
Jade has a complex interlocking molecular structure that makes it virtually impossible to carve, so abrasives are used to grind away the stone when shaping and designing. Jade is the toughest known gemstone. Cool to the touch at first, jade will soon become warm when handled or worn. This characteristic is associated with “Qi”, the life force that powers the universe. It is thought that the qi within a jade piece connects the wearer to this life force helping to bring empowerment and health as well as harmony with the world and one’s relations.
More than three-thousand years ago, jade became a stone with profound mystical and spiritual connotations. A craftsman’s hands breathed life into the stone, first creating objects to honor heaven and earth, and later jewelry to empower the wearer. Until very recently, access to jadite was limited to rulers and only the most elite members of society. It is only in our contemporary times that this gemstone, its beauty and power, is available to those who seek it.