This is a jade necklace. Jade is said to represent goodness and beauty in Taiwan and China. This necklace has a string attached to a jade pendant in the shape of a circle.  My grandfather, who immigrated from Taiwan, gave it to me. My grandparents immigrated here because they said America could offer a better education for them. When I was younger, my grandpa would always take 2-3 week trips to Taiwan, and when he came back he would always have gifts for me. Although he usually brought back jewelry for me, I happened to love this necklace the most. I think it is because everything else was very complicated and fancy. The simple design of this necklace makes me feel very connected to my culture. Although my grandfather does not go to Taiwan anymore, so he couldn’t take me, I treasure the jewelry that he brings back for me. Although I always feel connected to this piece of jewelry, on Lunar New Year I happen to feel even more. On Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year) all of my mom’s side relatives come to our house and we have dinner. Something that makes this object even more important to me is that my grandfather got the necklace as a personal gift to me, so unlike other objects he gets from Taiwan, this object only belongs to me. 

– MC

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant