Jadeite was introduced to China during the Eastern Han Dynasty. According to historical records, as early as the ninth year of the Yongyuan era in the Eastern Han Dynasty (97 AD), "Rare treasures were sent from Yongchang in Caiyun Province (modern-day Baoshan) and the king of the Shan State," marking the first time jadeite from Myanmar reached China. The Shan State refers to the regions of Menggong and Mengmi in northeastern Myanmar today. At that time, jadeite was a tribute, not a general commodity for trading. These extraordinary "green stones" were viewed as luxuries by the royals and noblemen in China, eagerly worn and displayed as fashion icons, and even used to distinguish ranks.
Similarly, the ancient city of Tengchong had already become a transfer station on the Southwest Silk Road during the Han Dynasty.
