To the ancient Mayans Jade was more valuable than Gold!

To the ancient Mayans, Jade was the symbol of supreme good. It was sacred to the culture and was used by Healers, Shamans, and Religious Leaders as important parts and symbols for their lives and rituals. Many objects were made of Jade: Beads, Pendants, Ear Flares, Buttons, Spangles, Inlays, Mosaic, Plaques, and many figurine pieces used in religious rituals. To the Mayans Jade symbolized eternity, eternal love, and Immortality.

The arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors in Central America in the 1500’s resulted in the Guatemalan Jade mines being “lost” until they were re-discovered less than 50 years ago. Geologists, Archaeologists, and scientific analysis have confirmed that the Columbian period Mayan Jade pieces that have been and are still being discovered are made of Jade from the same mines that were rediscovered in the 1980’s.

The Jade industry is a central component of the rediscovery of the Ancient Mayan Culture and Calendar and is critical to the indigenous people of Guatemala in regaining their independence and ability to contribute to modern day Guatemalan culture. Jade artwork and artifacts have become major economic forces in Guatemala today, allowing the descendants of this culturally rich and valuable society to have a sustainable life while still discovering their roots.

One member of our family of artisans is Jose Manuel and his family. They are one example of today’s Mayan decedents.

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