Record

Axehead of jadeite

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From Greenlawdean, Berwickshire

Postcard of Axehead of jadeite.
000-100-102-903-C
© National Museums Scotland

Axehead of jadeite

This axe of Alpine jadeite was found at Greenlawdean in Berwickshire. It was probably imported, via the Rhine, during the fourth millennium BC. Alpine jadeite axes were produced for export and were for ceremonial use, not as everyday axeheads.

Jadeite from the Piedmont area of the Swiss-Italian Alps is a very tough stone, difficult to work. The axe is highly polished.

Some axeheads were symbols of power and prestige, probably with religious significance as well. They were often used in gift exchanges and, like this one, could travel over large distances.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-100-102-903-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  Q.L.1951.2
Date: 3800 - 3000 BC
Between 3800 and 3000 BC
Material: Jadeite, green
Dimensions: 9.80" x 4.15" x 0.55"
What: Axe
Subject:
Who: Mr Milne, farmer
Where: Scotland, Berwickshire, Greenlawdean
Event:
Description: Large axe head of green Alpine jadeite, found at Greenlawdean, Berwickshire, 3800 - 3000 BC
References:
  • Clarke, D.V., Cowie, T.G., & Foxon, Andrew (eds). Symbols of power at the time of Stonehenge. Edinburgh: National Museums of Antiquities of Scotland, 1985, pp 173, 252. 
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