Unknown Large Chi Ling Dragon Amulet In Nephrite Jade, Circa 1970, With 14k Gold Bale

Mr. Ha confirmed the amulets are hand-carved translucent nephrite, of Chinese origin, and undyed. These amulets are made to be worn around the neck or hanging from a belt.

This specific amulet is, according to Mr. Ha, around fifty years old, but the image of the dragon has ancient significance.

In Chinese mythology, The Dragon had nine baby dragons, and each of these is recognizable by a particular characteristic. Our dragon, Chi Ling, is identified by the fact that he has angled spines on his head. Several interpretations of the dragons’ legends are available, but we like the one where Chi Ling, part horse, part dragon, guards the gates of heaven, keeping out the baddies.

The amulet came to use drilled at the top, so to make it into a pendant, we just added a bale of hand-pulled recycled 14 karat gold flat wire. It’s nice and roomy to accommodate just about any chain.

The big black woven cord shown in the photos is included. It’s 9mm thick (it’s upholstery cording!) and 16.5″ long. The magnetic closure is brass or some other base metal. We like the way the pendant looks with a thick cord, but if you’d like something different, or if you would like a smaller bale, just let us know and we’ll give you options and adjusted pricing. (The woven cord is included, regardless. It doesn’t add anything to the price. It just adds to your happiness quotient.)

Measurements:

Amulet: 47mm long x 40mm wide x 4.5mm thick (1.8″ x 1.6″ x 0.2″)

Total pendant length: 59mm (2.3″)

Usable inside dimensions of bale: approx. 11mm long and 10mm wide

Pendant weight (without cord): 15.6 grams

Cord: 9mm thick and 16.5″ long