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.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-903-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: 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
  Axe
  
• 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. 
• Translations:
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