Archaic Jade Bi Disc

The bi (bee) disc is an ancient circular artifact made of neophrite jade. The earliest examples are neolithic from the Liangzhu culture (3400-2550 BC). There is great interest in how the bi discs were made and what they were used for. Jade is notoriously challenging to work with, which indicates a skilled craftsman dedicating many hours to create a disc. 

This example is archaic and maintains a round shape with a central round opening. The outer edge has calcification which is an indication of its age. The color of the jade is a light celadon and has a wonderful luminosity. It is about 9 cm in diameter and ranges in thickness from 4mm to 6mm.