Statues made of nephrite jade can weigh several tons.
© K. Sieber, www.makrogalerie.de
In China, the term "jade" has been used for at least 5000 years. Because of its very special nature of being tough and resistant like no other material known at that time, "jade" was used not only in Asia, but also in Europe and America for the production of tools and weapons. Over time, the material was also discovered for art objects (vases, sculptures). A veritable "jade" cult began to develop, especially in China..