gems, jade, jadeite, fei cui, Mesoamerica, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Mayans, Olmecs, Aztecs, archaeology, history, turquoise, gold, jewelry, obsidian

A visual survey of jewellery in pre-Hispanic Mexico, combining an introductory discussion of body adornment with a catalogue organised by ornament type, including ear ornaments, lip plugs, nose ornaments, rings, bracelets, diadems, bells, necklaces, pendants and pectorals. It considers jewellery as an expression of identity, social rank and symbolic meaning, and discusses the selection and working of valued materials, particularly jade, turquoise and other green stones. Illustrations and a glossary provide a reference for recognising the forms and cultural significance of ancient Mexican jewellery.