In ancient Mesoamerica, the use of unusual gemstones like obsidian and jade was closely tied to religious and sacrificial practices. The Aztecs, in particular, believed that obsidian had a special connection to the underworld and the gods of death and destruction. As a result, obsidian was often used to create ceremonial daggers and other objects used in human sacrifice. Similarly, the Mayans believed that jade had a special connection to the afterlife and would often place jade beads and ornaments in the mouths of the deceased to ensure a smooth passage to the underworld.