Guatemala is home to some of the most important jade deposits in the world, and the precious stone has been highly sought after since pre-Columbian times.
Under the ancient Maya, jade was so desirable it was more valuable than gold. It was used to make jewelry, weapons and figurines, while wealthy members of society might wear jade earrings or have small rocks inlaid into their teeth as a status symbol.
The precious stone also accompanied wealthy Maya in death. Thanks to its religious significance and the belief jade linked the world of the living and the dead, important figures would be buried with jade beads in their mouths.
Experts believe Maya royals would have their faces rubbed with a jade stone after they died, in the belief it would absorb their soul and spirit. While there remain a lot of unanswered questions about the use and significance of jade by the ancient Maya, it’s clear the stones were highly regarded.
Today, jade is still a valuable commodity, if less valuable than gold. Visitors to Guatemala will find precious stones for sale in tourist destinations such as Antigua, Guatemala, where there are various jade workshops.
Pick up a pair of earrings or a figurine as a souvenir and you will always be reminded of the power of the stone once you return home from Guatemala.
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