Sawn nephrite boulder

This large nephrite boulder probably signified great wealth in the ancient Lower Mainland. It could be sawn, as this boulder was, to produce finely grained blades for tools and weapons. It is unlikely that the boulder originated in the Lower Mainland. Archaeologist Jesse Morin, a UBC graduate student, is currently testing this and other nephrite boulders throughout BC to determine exactly where in the province the nephrite originated. This will allow him to track trade routes amongst the ancient peoples of the Lower Mainland and the other peoples of the province.

Supporting Sponsor - First Nation Collection