Yupei

Yupei (Chinese: 玉佩; pinyin: Yùpèi) is a generic term for jade pendants. Yupei were popular even before Confucius was born.^: 18 Jade culture is an important component of Chinese culture, reflecting both the material and spiritual culture.^: 18 Jade is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and played a role in every aspect of social life;^: 18 it is also associated with positive qualities and aspects such as purity, excellence, and harmony.^{: 20 : 94}Jade is even more valued than gold in Chinese culture.^: 94 The history of the art of jade carving in China to make ornaments, including dress ornaments, extends back to before 5000 BC. Ancient Chinese held even greater importance to yupei after it was regarded as a moral integrity by Confucius.^: 18 Yupei could be used as belt or waist ornaments (such as jinbu 禁步) and as necklaces which appeared as early as the Liangzhu culture.^: 39 Strings of jade pendant are also used to decorate headwear, such as the mianguan.