1967.1.0006 (Pendant)

Ornamental Disk - Symbol of Heaven. Original is of Jadeite, Chinese, probably 18th or 19th century
This ornamental Disk with a circular hole in the center represents a "pi" symbol of Heaven. The low relief carvings are stylized butterflies symbolizing immortality.
Jade is a general term which includes two distinct minerals - nephrite and jadeite. Jadeite is the rarer of the two jades and is considered by the Chinese as the choicest of all gemstones. According to the Chinese, jade is a symbol of the five cardinal virtues - charity, modesty, courage, justice, and wisdom