Hotan Jade Carvings
( 2005-09-13 )

Northwest China'sXinjiangUygur Autonomous Region is famous for itsjadeflower vases, birds, beasts, flowers, figures, imitations of ancient vessels, jewelry, and ornaments with the world-renowned Hotan white jade, Manasi green stone, and Hami yellow jade materials. Its jade products have sold well in Europe, the United States, Japan, Southeast Asian countries, and itsHong KongandMacaospecial administrative regions.

Hotan's rich jade resources are mainly derived fromKunlun Mountain, which earned Hotan the reputation of "Jade Mountain" in ancient times. The most famous kinds of Hotan jade are suet jade, black jade, and jadeite.

The suet jade, as its name "suet" suggests, is gentle and purely white, while the black jade is shining black. The two kinds are rare materials used to make jade ornaments like finger rings, bracelets,seals and curios. The jadeite, green as emerald, is even more valuable.

Hotan has been famous for its jade since ancient times. The Hotan jade products were introduced into China's Central Plains via theSilk Roadas a "tribute to the Imperial Court from the Western Regions," and were greatly treasured by the imperial families and dignitaries.