Belize, a Central American country whose capital is Belmopan, is home to several ruins belonging to the Mayan culture. This civilization was one of the most enterprising and knowledgeable about the benefits of jade. The territory borders Mexico and Guatemala; being the second largest supplier of the mineral in the region. At least three thirds of the activities carried out revolved around the exploitation of this crystal.
The craft of jade was important to these villagers, who became experts in the art of carving on this rock. Its composition was of high consistency, therefore, in order to carry out the activity, they had to use harder stones, such as diamond.
In Mayan society, the chief used jade garments, using accessories such as necklaces, masks, bracelets, amulets, among others; one of his greatest privileges was the use of dental inlays, which, it was said, had the power to command respect by speaking and to persuade all who would listen.
Jade was even used for crafting weapons; and in addition to being a resistant material, it was considered an amulet that attracted protection and good luck.
From a religious and spiritual point of view, the Mayans believed they had a connection with the world of the gods and the bridge through which this was possible was jade. At the time of performing the ceremonies and praises, the villagers made use of masks and figures in the form of gods, carved in jade stones.
It was also used in the utensils made for the consumption of food, so that the powers of this gem were transmitted to the food, in this way they boosted the spiritual vigor of each Mayan member.
In health, jade was the bearer of abundant healing benefits. They were activated with internal energy; the Mayans used it to reduce kidney problems, circulatory conditions, increase skin regeneration and calm bone ailments. This stone, too, was a healer of the soul, it was used to calm emotional crises, provided mental relaxation and helped maintain internal balance.
Among the Mayan ruins present in Belize is the Altún Há, it is a small commercial center, recognized for the riches that have been found inside; It is made up of two squares, surrounded by fourteen buildings.
In one of these temples, there is the so-called «Green Tomb»; In this, around three hundred jade objects were found, all in almost optimal conditions. Hidden in this treasure, one of the heaviest pieces of jade in the Mayan territory was found, weighing around 5 kilos.
The inhabitants of this territory were considered the dominant community among the different indigenous ethnic groups, since they had almost a million inhabitants; its architecture and the jade finds speak of its history, noting the importance of the different parts that made up its culture and the different religious activities.