This fascinating anthropomorphic pendant is carved of jade, a rare and beautiful stone that is much harder than obsidian. Jade is the toughest and most durable of the stones, and the flaking and chipping procedures that are effective on flint and other quartz minerals cannot work it. Its superiority, thus, could have become evident only at the Neolithic level of technology, when stone could be worked by abrasion. This pendant is a splendidly carved jade full of rich symbolism. Possibly representing a chieftain or a shaman warrior, he wears a crocodile mask. He also holds a ceremonial staff with an avian-head on the top. Such depiction of revered animals clearly shows the figure's relationship with the animal world. The magical amphibian crocodile and the serpent associated with the beginning of Meso-America all portrayed in one amulet; a very special chieftain or a warrior must have worn this pendant. This beautiful pendant's cool green color and the perfect symmetry is visually and emotionally soothing. Its calm and timeless presence and power appeal to our senses as it did to people of the Ancient Costa Rica. Even across the obstacles of time and culture, the finely carved jade amulet's grace, vibrant power, and magic are undeniably evident today.