Neolithic Period Chinese Jade Bi Disc Decorated W/Chilong Motifs - This is an ancient Chinese jade Bi (disc), believed to be from the Neolithic period. These discs can be dated back to at least 5000 BC, were placed in tombs on the bodies of Chinese aristocrats. Their original function and the way that they were made still eludes scientists, considering they were carved out of Jade, an extremely hard rock, at a time where metal tools did not exist. They appear to have been very important to the Chinese culture, as they have been found laid on the bodies of the dead in almost all important tombs of the Hongshan culture (3800 _ 2700 BC), and carried on into the Liangzhu culture (3000 _ 2000 BC). The disc is decorated on both sides with Chilong designs, on side in high relief and one side incised. The disc is in stunning, museum quality condition. Measures 11" in diameter x 0.75" thick. (Approx. 9000 cts.)