Why there are so many kinds of different patterns carved on jade? What are the meanings of these patterns?

There is a traditional thought in China that jade should not only act as ornamental. One the contrary, every piece of jade carving should express a meaning, of course, a good meaning.

Let's see what these patterns symbolize:

Symbols of good luck:

Bat is the symbol of good luck.

Rat: rat is also called fortune rat. It means good luck, too.

Cloud: cloud is the carriage of God or Goddess, means good luck.

Two dragons play with a ball: good luck.

Two lions play with a ball: good luck and celebration.

A small fortune rat climbing on a large coin, means good luck is coming.

Dragon and Phoenix : they are fairies that can bring good luck to all the people.

Five bats: five kinds of good lucks are coming.

Symbols of wealth:

Peony is the symbol of wealth.

Stones, peony and peach blossom: means wealth and long life.

Two fishes, or lotus leaf and fish: means save wealth every year.

two fishes, lotus root and lotus, means save wealth every year.

Symbols of happiness:

Magpie is the symbol of happiness.

Four laughing little boys: four happy things will happen in the near future.

A magpie standing on the branch of a plum tree: you are so happy that others can see it from your face

Symbols of long life:

Peach, owned crane and tortoise are the symbols of long life.

Two magpies flying happily, is the symbol of happiness.

Symbols of social status:

A big monkey carries a small monkey on its back: your family has high official position from age to age.

A monkey riding on a horseback, a bee flying besides: you will get an official position right now

Symbols of love:

A pair of Mandarin ducks is the symbol of love.

Round moon and blossoming flowers: celebration of new marriage.

Lotus, lotus root and lotus leaf: celebration of new marriage.

Symbols of others:

Three goats and a sun: celebration of the new year.

Fairy fungus: means everything goes as you wish.

Bottle: means peace.