From about 3500 BC to 2000 BC a series of cultures appeared in north-east China, on the east coast and in the Shanghai delta region that show signs of social differentiation through elite burials, the production of prestige goods such as jades and the construction of elaborate ceremonial centres.
In some cemeteries of the Dawenkou culture on the east coast, for example Chengzi, elite groups were buried in distinct parts of the cemetery with a rich array of grave goods including many fine painted pottery vessels especially for drinking, incised turtle shells, pig mandibles, jades and caskets.
Full-time or part-time craft specialists manufactured these finely made pottery and jades. These treasures were exchanged over long distances between the new elite groups allowing them to express and reinforce their social position with exotic items.
