Creatures of Blessing: Animal Symbols in Jadeite Carvings

In Chinese culture, animals aren’t just part of the natural world — they’re messengers of meaning. In jadeite carving, each animal carries a hidden message, often encoded in homophones (wordplay), legends, or ancient belief systems. These motifs are more than decorative; they’re personal amulets, designed to attract fortune, ward off harm, and invite harmony.

Here are some of the most beloved and meaningful animal figures found in jadeite:

Bat (蝠 fú)

Pronounced the same as the word for “blessing” (福), bats symbolize good fortune. Often carved flying upside down (meaning “fortune has arrived”), they are joyful, playful signs of luck. Multiple bats in one design can mean “five blessings” — longevity, wealth, health, love of virtue, and a peaceful death.

Cicada (蝉 chán)

Symbol of rebirth, youth, and transformation. Cicadas shed their skins, and so they represent eternal renewal and immortality. In jadeite, a cicada worn close to the chest or back is believed to protect against betrayal or ill fate, especially for scholars or those in official posts.

Toad (金蟾 jīn chán)

The mythical three-legged money toad is a powerful charm for attracting wealth. Often shown with a coin in its mouth, this creature is placed near cash registers or worn as a pendant to encourage financial luck and business success.

Turtle (龟 guī)

The turtle is a symbol of longevity, wisdom, and stability. It lives a long and steady life, and jadeite turtles are often gifted to elders or worn by those seeking grounding and health.

Fish (鱼 yú)

The Chinese word for fish sounds like “abundance” or “surplus” (余). Two fish swimming together symbolize harmony in relationships, while a fish and lotus combination means “continuous abundance” (连年有余).

Sheep (羊 yáng)

In ancient Chinese cosmology, the character “three sheep bring bliss” (三阳开泰) is an auspicious phrase. The sheep symbolizes peace, positivity, and the start of good fortune — making it an uplifting and elegant motif for jadeite collectors.

These animals are more than figures — they’re living metaphors. They connect us with nature, with belief, and with the timeless art of storytelling through stone.

In the next chapter, we’ll step into the plant kingdom: from lotus and bamboo to lingzhi mushrooms and cabbage, discover how even flowers and vegetables become spiritual symbols in the jadeite tradition.