Chinese thumb rings were called ‘she’ in the ancient china. In modern china it is called ‘banzhi’. From the ancient times, the Chinese thumb rings bore the history of many incidents and famous personalities. In modern times, it is a status symbol of rich and wealthy men. It can be proud possession for anyone and everyone who possess it.
Earlier, archer rings were used just for the practical use. But as time changed it became ornamental. Now, archer rings are available in different materials like metals, stones, etc. The rings made of hard a stone like jade is authentic Chinese tradition, as it is most challenging to make. Jade is the second favorite material for making thumb rings by the Chinese artisans. Jade rings is famous for contrasting different colors altogether.
Some archery rings are made simple with no designs and carvings. This is done so that the material can be seen properly. These rings carry different signs, inscriptions and description of some incidents. The most famous of the lot is the set of seven rings of Qianlong. They have identical shapes and sizes. They have been carved with the pictures of mountains, clouds, pines and the emperor’s poem.
One can actually wear them as a piece of jewelry. They can be worn like ring and as a pendant on a beautiful chain on the neckline. With the modernization in china, the art of thumb rings are almost lost. The authenticity can be hardly found. More than that cheap replicas are available all over. One can find some rare pieces of them but a huge amount have to be paid to own one of them.