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Axehead of jadeite

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From Greenlawdean, Berwickshire

Axehead of jadeite
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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.

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