Jade has had mystical significance since the Neolithic Age which began 10,000 years ago. Most sophisticated Neolithic settlements date to 3000 BC. Various cultures began to develop around the Yellow and Yangtze rivers. Settlements in the north were sparse, but appear to have had contact with both extreme northern peoples and with those in the southern areas around the areas of Xi'an and Anyang. Interesting similarities in bronze art extend from the northern Mongolian regions down into Yunnan. During the late Neolithic period the Yan people began to form a system culture. At the same time, the Han people were developing their culture around Anyang.

During the period following the Tang Dyansty, the disruptions on the political scene brought new influences from foreign countries and multiplied the cultures influencing the development of art. By the Song Dynasty, new vigor had been brought to jade objects. Paintings influenced jade artists to portray scenic vistas and everyday activities. The Liao and Jin cultures in the north around Beijing drew influences from Mongolian, Manchu, Khitan, and Jurchen cultures as well as from the Song Dynasty to the south.

During the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties jade objects became much more secular and decorative. While jade continued to be used for religious objects, such as Buddha figures; flowers, designs, and patterns diversified and became the central theme of many objects. During the Yuan Dyanasty, workmen combined the influences of Mongolian, Jin, and traditional Chinese influences.

During the early Ming Dynasty, the Yuan tradition continued, but by the middle of the Ming Dynasty patterns simplified with a greater emphasis on line. This can be seen in Ming Dynasty furniture, as well. In the late Ming Period there was experimentation with rough jade patterns, letting the stone carry a natural form. The Ming Dynasty introduced many literary forms to jade objects.

The Qing Dyansty was a time of elaboration in many art forms. Because Emperors Kangxi, Yongcheng and Qianlong all loved art and culture, they supported the development of new artistic works. All three collected jade and placed high value on the beauty of the objects made with it. Very large objects were commissined by the aristocracy in the form of urns, vases, incense burners, and boxes. Jade jewely became quite delicate and elaborate.