

Japan
The Museum's jade collection has objects mostly from China, Mesoamerica, and New Zealand. But jade was also used by many other cultures. The Jomon of Japan was the oldest culture to use jadeite, as early as 3000 B.C.! This is a "taishu," believed to be worn as a pendant.

Russia
Jade was very popular in Moscow and was valued in the Russian Imperial Court. Small animal figurines reminded people of their "dachas," or summer homes in the country.

Alaska
This button was found in Alaska and used by the Eskimo.

Switzerland
People living in Europe thousands of years ago used jade to make tools and weapons.

British Columbia
This adze, or axe, was used by the Haida people in the area now known as British Columbia.

Persia
Take a look at this spoon. It is from Persia, which is now Iran.

Korea
Did you know that Korea is one of the oldest cultures to use jade? Koreans used jade found in their country, as well as jade from Japan.
Image Credits:
Taishu: Museum of Itoigawa City; Switzerland: Peter Vollenweider/Natural History Museum Bern; all other photos: courtesy of AMNH