1,200 BC: Cowrie Shells The first use of cowries ... The earliest known use of wampum, which are strings of beads made from clam shells, was by North American Indians in 1535.

Wampum, a type of shell bead, were used as currency by Native Americans while whale teeth were exchanged for goods by people in Fiji. The cowrie, however, proved especially popular and endured for ...

One important piece is 'Mandu Yenu' the Royal Throne of Bamum, a striking work adorned with glass beads and cowrie shells, also known as the Pearl Throne. What should be done with this masterwork and ...