Do you know what is Magatama (勾玉)?
Magatama (勾玉), less frequently (曲玉), are curved, comma-shaped beads that appeared in prehistoric Japan from the Final Jōmon period through the Kofun period, approximately ca. 1,000 BC to the 6th century AD.
The Magatama You May Know
The origin of Magatama forms still remains a mystery. Here are some alternative explanations:
- Magatama may be fashioned after animal fangs/teeth.
- Magatama may be modeled after the shape of fetuses.
- Magatama could symbolize the shape of the soul.
- Magatama may be modeled after the shape of the moon.
A combination of two Magatama was said to resemble the symbol of Taichi.
You may also find Magatama appears in some Japanese video games, animes or comics such as Naruto. The most famous one is Yasakani no Magatama (八尺瓊曲玉):
A noted magatama is the Yasakani no Magatama (八尺瓊曲玉), also (八坂瓊曲玉), one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. Swords, mirrors, and jewels were common objects of status for regional rulers in Japan as early as the Yayoi period, and were further widespread in the Kofun period, as evidenced by their ubiquitous presence in kofun tumuli.
This is the Magatama I brought back from Okinawa, Japan. It is said to have the power to invoke its holder’s potential creativity.
Jade vs. Magatama
Jade (玉), an ornamental stone greatly valued in Chinese society, is often mistaken for Magatama (勾玉). However, Magatama is a significant symbol of Japanese culture. Both Jade and Magatama are said to have mysterious energies and can be greatly beneficial to their holders.
To be better understood by Westerners, we decided to translate the game’s name “勾玉忍者” in Chinese to “Jade Ninja” in English. Just keep in mind that Jade and Magatama are different things.
In Jade Ninja, you can be equipped with one of the 5 following mystical Jades to gain extra abilities:
- Jade of Snowfall: Chance to freeze enemies on hit.
- Jade of Fortune: Chance to get extra coins on drop.
- Jade of Soul: Chance to get extra EXP on drop.
- Jade of Starlight: Chance to stun enemies on hit.
- Jade of Rage: Increase critical rate.
By leveling up Jades, you will have stronger power and more chances to survive longer.
“Don’t run. Protect.”
Jade Ninja is set to be released worldwide on Feb 20th.