About
瑗 is a phono-semantic compound with the jade radical 王 (a variant of 玉) on the left, indicating its semantic category of precious stones or jade objects. The component 爰 (yuán) on the right provides its pronunciation. The character specifically denotes a large, ceremonial jade ring or disc with a central opening proportionally wider than the jade itself, setting it apart from other circular jade ornaments. Because of the cultural significance of jade, 瑗 frequently appears in classical texts concerning ritual offerings and aristocratic dress, and it remains a popular choice for given names to evoke elegance and value.
Etymology Hide
