玉，实际上是优质的石头。和普通的石头相比，玉有坚韧的质地、晶润的光泽、绚丽的色彩、致密而透明的组织、舒扬致远的声音。

Jade, in fact, is a kind of high-quality stone. Unlike ordinary stones, jade is known for its toughness and durability, brilliant luster, splendid color, as well as its density and translucence. In addition, jade produces a pleasant and far-reaching sound when tapped.

　　在中国人的心目中，玉并不只是石头，它有着深厚的文化内涵。

In the hearts of the Chinese people, jade is not merely a stone; it is also a substance with profound cultural meaning.

　　在古代中国，有“君子佩美玉”的说法，玉器是当时的人们最重要的装饰品，尤其是佩戴在腰间的玉，象征了主人的身份和地位。

In ancient China, there was a saying that “the true gentleman wears jade.” Indeed, jade articles were the most important ornaments for people in early Chinese history. During that period, jade accessories were often worn on the waist to represent social status.

　　甚至，从秦朝开始，用玉做成的印玺就成为了皇权的象征。

Since the Qin Dynasty, seals made of jade have even been regarded as a symbol of imperial power.

　　现在，很多人佩戴玉器，因为它象征了纯洁、富贵。

Today, many people choose to wear jade for its symbolism of purity and affluence.

　　中国的玉器经过无数能工巧匠的精雕细琢，历代统治者和鉴赏家使用赏玩，礼学家诠释美化，最后成为一种具有超自然力的物品。玉器成了人们的精神寄托，已深深地融入到中国传统文化与礼俗之中，并打上了政治的、宗教的、道德的、价值的烙印，蒙上了一层神秘的面纱。

China’s jade articles have been carefully carved by countless skilled craftsmen. After having been used and appreciated by generations of emperors and connoisseurs as well as interpreted and embellished by ritualists, jade objects are thought to have acquired supernatural powers. Jade articles have since become spiritually important for the Chinese people and deeply integrated into traditional Chinese culture, etiquette and customs. The significant role that jade has played in the realms of politics, religion and moral philosophy have caused this precious stone to acquire an air of mystery.