The Significance of Jade in Chinese Culture
China is a country of jade, with a seven thousand year long history using jade, and two thousand five hundred years of studying jadeware. In the Han dynasty, 许Xǔ 慎Shèn, a Confucian scholar and the compiler of the original Chinese character dictionary, defined “jade” as gemstones with five specific attributes, which are praised as the “five virtues of jade”. According to 许Xǔ 慎Shèn, jades must have strong tenacity, crystal-like luster, brilliant coloring, tight yet translucent grain, and a clear, soothing sound when struck. Thus, jade symbolizes beauty, resilience and strength of character.
Furthermore, jade is believed to have protective properties, able to protect its owner from danger, avoid evils, and block misfortune. Because of this, in times before, jade was a commonly used material for ceremonial tools used in offerings to gods. It was an emblem of one’s class status, even the
Emperor’s official seal was carved from jade. Jadeware was beloved by emperors, so much so that in “ 左Zuǒ 传Zhuàn” many stories were recorded of feudal dukes presenting jadeware to each other as offerings for friendship and cooperation, and of jadeware being the choice tribute to the Emperor. Now in contemporary times, in addition to wearing jade for decorative purposes, people also wear them as peace talismans.
The Significance of Red in Chinese Culture
Red (红hóng) is auspicious in traditional Chinese culture, so it is a beloved color by the Chinese people. During Chinese New Year, children receive “红hóng 包bāo” or “red envelopes” containing money, for good luck. When someone gains fame, they can be described with the idiom “大dà 紫zǐ 大dà 红hóng”, or “大dà 红hóng 大dà 紫zǐ” translating literally to “very purple and very red”. This brings an image of great success, comparing the person’s career to the sun at noon, very bright. Words containing the character “红hóng” are very often positive. “红hóng 运yùn”, literally “red luck”, means good fortune; “红hóng 星xīng”, literally “red star”, describes a very popular celebrity; “红hóng 颜yán,” literally “red face,” points to a lady’s beautiful visage. In Chinese culture, red is associated with celebration, good fortune, vitality and success.
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