Xinjiang Jade Scarab Pendant
A scarab pendant made of hetian(?) jade from Xinjiang, China.
6.5x2.5x2.5cm (stone), 16cm (band)
Inherited
Yes
Hello, this item is a hand-carved jade pendant from Xinjiang, China, measuring approximately 6.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm for the stone itself, with a scarab or cicada motif in high relief on the surface. The material appears to be a form of nephrite jade, likely Hetian (Hotan) jade, distinguished by its translucent creamy-yellow and brownish-red veining—typical of nephrite sourced from Xinjiang’s riverbeds or mountain mines.
Such pendants hold symbolic meaning in Chinese culture, where cicada or scarab shapes symbolize rebirth, immortality, and protection. Market value depends heavily on material quality, translucency, and workmanship. For contemporary or 20th-century examples of this size and style in good condition, typical values range from $200 to $600 USD.
Thank you, Ross – that’s a completely fair question. The large gap in valuation likely stems from a few key variables not fully discernible in photos: the quality of the jade (especially translucency and purity), whether the piece is antique or a high-quality modern carving, and whether there is any provenance or documentation linking it to a specific period, workshop, or collector.
Thank you - I was originally given a rough estimate of around £5,000-£7,000. I understand that may have been a high estimate, but are there other qualities (perhaps not apparent in photos) that could cause such a large difference in valuation?