中国出土早期天河石研究

Insights into the Historical Significance and Distribution of Amazonite in Ancient China

天河石作为一种蓝绿色宝石,在中国有着较长的使用历史。本文通过梳理中国早期天河石制品的发现地点、分布范围、器类、使用与功能等方面的信息,对现有考古发现中天河石制品进行系统整理研究,发现中国对天河石的使用始于东北,在东北地区集中出土且长期存在,是一种典型的东北区域宝石品种,中国先秦时期天河石存在由东北向西、向南传播的趋势,该研究为探讨东北地区的玉文化内涵,并通过天河石文物窥视不同地区与东北地区考古学文化的交流提供帮助。

Amazonite,a green gemstone with a rich history in ancient China,has often been mistaken for turquoise or nephrite due to its similar appearance.Consequently,artifacts made from amazonite have been understudied in archaeological research.This paper seeks to shed light on the discovery locations,distribution patterns,types,uses,and functions of early amazonite artifacts through an analysis of published finds.Our results reveal that the utilization of amazonite originated in Northeast China,where a concentration of amazonite artifacts is evident in archaeological records spanning a significant period.This establishes amazonite as a quintessential gemstone of the northern regions.Moreover,the spread of amazonite during the pre-Qin period demonstrates a discernible trend from northeast to west and south.This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of jade culture in Northeast China but also facilitates the exploration of cultural exchange between different regions and Northeast China through the lens of amazonite artifacts.