Pre-Columbian jade frog
13 August 2025
Description

♧Vintage Pre-Columbian Mayan Green Jade Frog Artifact from circa 600-800 AD is an original artifact crafted by a Mayan sculpterer in green jade. This unique artifact features green jade and is a representation of the Mayan culture. This piece is a valuable artifact that embodies the craftsmanship and artistic style of the Mayan civilizations, showcasing their intricate designs and attention to detail. The Mayan frog god of is often associated with rebirth, fertility, water and agriculture. 1.8 lbs - 5.5in long × 4in wide × 1.5in high

Dimensions

5.5inx4inx1.5in

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes
Answered within about 21 hours
By David U.
Aug 14, 19:18 UTC
Fair Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is a carved green jade sculpture of a frog, attributed to the Pre-Columbian Maya and dated circa 600–800 AD. The form is stylized with simplified anatomical features and rounded contours, consistent with Mesoamerican jade zoomorphic carvings. The dimensions (5.5 x 4 x 1.5 inches) and weight (1.8 lbs) suggest a substantial ceremonial object, possibly used in rituals related to fertility, rain, or agricultural cycles. The frog was symbolically tied to water and rebirth in Mayan belief systems, making such carvings spiritually significant.

Authenticity in Pre-Columbian jade is a major issue due to widespread replication, and stylistic features must align with known Mayan lapidary techniques. This piece shows surface wear and mineral inclusions suggestive of age, but a definitive appraisal would require mineral testing (e.g., Raman spectroscopy) and stylistic comparison to excavated parallels. If confirmed authentic, its value could fall in the $6,000 to $12,000 USD range. Without scientific authentication, its fair market value as a probable Pre-Columbian-style carving would more cautiously range between $800 and $1,500 USD.

This is a conditional appraisal, which means that we have not verified the authenticity of this item. Click here to learn more about the authentication resources that Mearto offers.

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