Hello everyone, I am Zhao Yaqin. I have been immersed in the jade industry for over thirty years, with a particular passion for the study of ancient jade culture. To me, ancient jade is not merely an inanimate mineral; it is a living fossil that embodies thousands of years of Chinese civilization. In recent years, with advancements in technology and a growing cultural confidence, the field of ancient jade research has seen many exciting new perspectives and methodologies emerge. Today, I would like to share some of my latest thoughts on the study of ancient jade culture.

I. From "Object Worship" to "Cultural Tracing": Deepening the Understanding of Ancient Jade's Value

In the past, when we discussed ancient jade, our focus often leaned towards its rarity, craftsmanship, and market value. However, as research has progressed, I have increasingly realized that the true value of ancient jade far surpasses these superficial aspects. It is not just an exquisite artifact; it is a crucial node in the developmental脉络 of Chinese civilization, the most direct material evidence of ancient people's thoughts, beliefs, aesthetics, and even social structures.

Take, for example, the study of Neolithic Hongshan culture jade artifacts. In the past, we might have primarily focused on their unique C-shaped dragons and cloud-shaped pieces. But now, through archaeological analysis of excavated sites, combined with the social context and religious beliefs of the time, we discover that these jade pieces were not merely decorative items. They were ritual objects with sacred significance, serving as a medium to communicate between heaven and earth, ancestors and the living. The cosmology, philosophy of life, and the reverence for natural forces held by clan societies were all embodied in these jade artifacts, which condensed the wisdom of artisans. This shift from "object worship" to "cultural tracing" has given us a more holistic and profound understanding of ancient jade.

II. Interdisciplinary Integration: The "Microscope" and "Telescope" of Ancient Jade Research

Traditional ancient jade research primarily relied on archaeology, history, and art history. However, I am delighted to see that an increasing number of disciplines are now integrating with ancient jade research, providing us with an unprecedented "microscope" and "telescope."

For instance, the application of scientific archaeology. Through modern analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, we can precisely identify the origin of jade materials, analyze their mineral composition and processing traces, and even infer the mining, transportation, and manufacturing techniques of that era. I once participated in a project where micro-trace analysis of a Warring States period jade bi disc revealed extremely fine cutting marks on its surface. This indicated that highly precise wire-cutting technology was already mastered at that time, far exceeding our previous imagination.

Furthermore, the involvement of anthropology, ethnology, and religious studies provides a broader perspective for understanding the social functions and symbolic meanings of ancient jade. By examining the existing jade beliefs and customs of ethnic minorities, we can better infer the usage scenarios and cultural connotations of jade artifacts in ancient societies. This interdisciplinary integration transforms ancient jade research from a single-dimensional investigation into a comprehensive "jadeology."

III. The "Revitalization" of Ancient Jade and the Reshaping of Contemporary Value

In this era of information explosion, how can ancient jade culture transcend being a "dead object" confined to high shelves and instead resonate with contemporary society, radiating new vitality? This is a question I have constantly pondered.

I believe that the "revitalization" of ancient jade is not merely about displaying it in museums. More importantly, it involves enabling the public, especially young people, to understand, appreciate, and inherit this precious cultural heritage through diverse approaches.

For example, the application of digitalization. Through 3D modeling, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) technologies, we can allow audiences to experience the charm of ancient jade immersively, even "touching" those precious artifacts. I once saw an exhibition where AR technology allowed visitors to scan jade artifacts with their phones, and the screen would display the story behind the jade, the meaning of its patterns, and animated demonstrations of its manufacturing process. This immersive experience significantly enhanced audience engagement and learning interest.

Moreover, combining ancient jade culture with modern design and creative cultural products is also an effective way to "revitalize" it. Integrating classic patterns and design elements of ancient jade into jewelry design, home furnishings, and even clothing allows ancient jade culture to enter the public eye in a more fashionable and relatable manner. This not only disseminates ancient jade culture but also brings new development opportunities to the jade industry.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Ancient jade cultural research is currently in an era full of vitality and opportunities. We are no longer satisfied with simple investigations and classifications; instead, we are delving deeper to uncover the cultural codes hidden behind it. In the future, I recommend:

  • Continuously promoting interdisciplinary integration: Encourage deep collaboration among experts and scholars from fields such as archaeology, history, history of science and technology, art history, anthropology, and sociology to jointly unravel the mysteries of ancient jade.


  • Strengthening investment in scientific archaeology: Utilize cutting-edge technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence to establish ancient jade databases, facilitate information sharing and resource integration, and improve research efficiency and accuracy.


  • Innovating ancient jade cultural dissemination methods: Actively explore digital, immersive, and interactive communication approaches to bring ancient jade culture out of the ivory tower and to the public, especially the younger generation.


  • Emphasizing the contemporary value transformation of ancient jade: Encourage the integration of ancient jade cultural elements into modern design and creative industries, allowing traditional culture to flourish with new vitality in modern life, achieving a win-win situation for cultural heritage and economic benefits.


Ancient jade is the root and soul of the Chinese nation. As practitioners and researchers in the jade industry, we bear the mission of inheriting and promoting this precious heritage. I believe that through our unremitting efforts, ancient jade culture will undoubtedly shine even brighter in the new era, engaging in a dialogue with us that transcends time and reshaping its unique value in contemporary society. Thank you all!