The use of jade can be traced as far back as the Neolithic period, where the Chinese have used their native nephrite and other translucent minerals, such as agate to create carvings for significant artistic and ceremonial purposes. The Chinese term yu [玉], often translated as “jade,” encompasses a range of minerals, including nephrite, jadeite, serpentine, and bowenite. Among these, nephrite held a place of highest esteem due to its exceptional toughness, lasting durability, smooth polish, and captivating purity.

Nephrite, at its core, is a calcium magnesium silicate, naturally white in colour. Yet, the presence of minerals like copper, chromium, and iron can transform it into a palette of soft grey-greens, rich yellows, or fiery reds. During the Han period (206 B.C.E.–220 C.E.), the most treasured variety was Hetian jade, prized for its creamy white glow. This jade came from the oasis region of Hetian along the Silk Route, hidden within the mountains’ metamorphic rocks. Over time, as the rocks weathered, sturdy boulders of nephrite would break away and tumble down to the foot of the mountains, where they were carefully gathered.

Our upcoming auction presents this Chinese celadon jade three-hole plaque with a yellowish tone. Dating to the Hongshan period (circa 3500–2200 BC), this plaque features three perforations of progressively larger size, carefully aligned with its overall form.

Jade plaques of this type, originally designed with only two perforations, are believed to have originated in the Xinkailiu culture (c. 5300–4800 BC) and were later produced at various prehistoric sites in Northeast China, including those associated with the Hongshan culture. A closely related, slightly smaller Hongshan jade plaque (height 6.4 cm) was excavated in Fuxin, Liaoning (see Zhongguo yuqi quanji [Complete Collection of Chinese Jades], vol. 1: Yuanshi shehui [Primitive Society], Hebei, 1991, pl. 7).

Like the present example, that plaque was likely suspended by a string, as suggested by an indentation along its narrower side.

Offered as Lot 47, are four Neolithic Chinese carved jade plaques, including a rare trident-form jade carving from the Liangzhu culture, dating to circa 3100–2000 BC. The front of the trident-shaped plaque is finely carved in shallow relief, with delicate incised lines depicting a simplified divine figure.

The trident-shaped jade is a distinctive form unique to the Liangzhu culture. Typically, it was assembled with multiple conical vessels to create an elaborate headdress. This type of carving is most commonly found in the Zhejiang province.

Jade stands apart from other gemstones, often described as ‘warm’ and treasured for its metaphysical qualities. Its remarkable toughness and translucent beauty have made it a favourite material for crafting everything from delicate ornaments to ceremonial weapons and sacred ritual objects. Worn by kings and nobles in life and placed with them in death, jade became a symbol of royalty and elevated status, its allure transcending mere decoration to embody power and prestige.

Learn more about the importance of jade in Chinese culture, key things to consider when buying jades and how to look after jade.

Auction Highlights

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Auction Details

Wednesday 12 & Thursday 13 November 2025, 10.30am GMT
Dreweatts, Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE, UK

Bidding is available in person at our salerooms, online, by telephone or you can leave commission (absentee) bids.

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VIEWING

• Viewing in London (Highlights):
  Dreweatts, 16-17 Pall Mall, St James’s, London SW1Y 5LU
  • Sunday 2 November: 10am-3pm
  • Monday 3 November: 10am-4pm
  • Tuesday 4 November: 10am-4pm
• Viewing in Newbury (Full sale):
  Dreweatts, Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE, UK
  • Sunday 9 November: 10am-3pm
  • Monday 10 November: 10am-4pm
  • Tuesday 11 November: 10am-4pm
  • Wednesday 12 November: 10am-4pm
  • Thursday 13 November: 10am-4pm

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