Excavations in China's Zhejiang province have unearthed a cache of 'Cong' (square jade tubes) and 'Bi' (jade discs) from a high-status burial of the Liangzhu culture. The jades are carved with intricate man-mask motifs that required sophisticated abrasive techniques available 5,000 years ago.
These artifacts confirm the highly stratified nature of Liangzhu society and the central role of jade in their spiritual and political life. The site is now being considered for expanded protection as part of the Liangzhu Ancient City UNESCO buffer zone.