The ornamental use of jade in the Americas dates back over 3000 years, being revered by Olmec, Aztec, and Maya cultures as a symbol of eternity and permanence. Due to the Conquistadors' lust for gold, the Maya jade quarries were lost for more than four centuries, waiting to be rediscovered by archaeologist Mary-Lou Ridinger and her husband Jay Ridinger in 1974.
Tags:. .conquistadors. .quarries. .rediscovered. .ornamental. .revered














