Archers rings or thumb rings (Banzhi) were used in China for thousands of years and were originally used to pull back the string of a bow. During the Qing dynasty (1644 - 1912) these rings became a status symbol of the scholar-gentlemen, of officials and of the wealthy. They were worn on the thumb and were produced in a great variety of materials. This particular jade archers ring has been artificially stained and dates from the end of the Qing period. It was found in Hong Kong in the 1990's. Diameter 3.2 cm. Height 2.6 cm. Weight 27.7 grams.