Jade axes

The gemstone jadeite was used in the manufacture of ornamental axes and bracelets in the eastern Mediterranean region as early as the beginning of the Neolithic. Recent research indicates that this rare naturalre source was also used in the Italian Alps. Spectrometric tests reveal the provenance of Neolithic jadeite axes. Together with the knowledge of where they were found, this makes it possible to reconstruct trade routes. The rarity of the raw material and the elaborate manufacturing process involved suggest that these items were status symbols rather than weapons. Signs of rank, they were used to impress. In 1875, three axes of this type were found in the locality of Mönchpfiffel in Thuringia, 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) from the Italian site where the raw material was sourced. Perhaps this was a trading depot or a consecrated offering?