The ancient Maya considered jade to be divine and therefore far more important than gold. The stone had much religious meaning and was used to make both artistic and sacred objects. The nobility wore jade earplugs, pendants, necklaces, masks, and wristbands. Kings even inserted jade chips in their teeth.

 Jade was associated with fertility, with the green shoots of young corn plants, water, and life. Jade beads were placed in the mouths of

the dead along with ground corn so that the person would not starve physically or spiritually in his or her future life. Rulers were buried wearing jade death masks, enabling the lords of the underworld to recognize them and treat them with honor.

 The largest jade object—so far—discovered in the Mundo Maya is a carved head of Kinich Ahau, the sun god, which was uncovered at Altun Ha, Belize. It stands some 14.9 centimeters tall and weighs 4.42 kilos.

(Adapted from source)