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China |
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China |
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Beijing...Long Di Superior Jade Gallery |
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To view a larger size image simply click on the thumbnail of the picture. |
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Jade is of great significance to the Chinese people. It has been around since ancient times. Jade stands for beauty, grace, and purity and is seen everywhere in China. The jade gallery that we visited caters to tourists. Not only did the store have several floors for shopping, it also had its own restaurant. |
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 This is a piece of raw jade. Isn't it hard to believe that this can turn into such beautiful artistic creations? |
 Jade is very treasured in China, much like gold in the United States. We were told the belief is that jade will protect your soul when you die. |
 The art of carving jade is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. With each passing generation, skills increase and design gets more intricate. |
 These craftsmen are involved in the process of carving intricate scenes into what is called a "happiness ball." This craft is 4 balls with carvings, one inside the other. Each layer represents one generation, therefore it signifies a happy family. |
 We learned that women can not have the important job of polishing jade. That is a task for the men...the artisans. Women are permitted to polish the carved jade. |
 The finished product is truly amazing. How do they get the balls carved, one inside the other? We are told this is a secret passed down generations. |
 The art pieces in this gallery were exquisite, as well as expensive. It was very difficult to shop. Salespeople are positioned every few feet and you can't even stop to look without someone harassing you to buy something. "You like, you like?" is a phrase we heard constantly! |
 This is a buddha carved from white jade. |
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