gems, jade, jadeite, fei cui, Central America, Guatemala, Mesoamerica, lapidary, Costa Rica, Olmec, Maya

Balser introduces the pre-Columbian jade objects of Costa Rica, emphasizing their forms, manufacture and interpretation. The illustrated discussion includes axe-shaped pendants, animal motifs, beads and other ornaments, with references to finds from Nicoya and Línea Vieja. Attention is given to carving and perforation techniques, including tubular drilling, and to the use of jade objects as ornaments and amulets. Comparisons with other Mesoamerican traditions place Costa Rican material within a broader regional context. Written for a general readership, the booklet represents an early attempt to bring together information on a relatively little-studied aspect of Costa Rican archaeology.