Unlike coins or paper money, cowrie shells were durable and visually appealing, with a variety of patterns across the tiny domed shell that made them harder to counterfeit. Cowries could be ...

the shell of a mollusc that was widely available in the shallow waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, was in China. Historically, many societies have used cowries as money, and even as recently ...

Their relevance also sate beyond being used as money. They even represented power in trade: Europeans in the 16th century used cowries to enter African trade markets. Shells were used to purchase ...

The cowrie, a type of marine snail, has very colourful shells which were used as money. It seems that it wasn’t just the colours that made the shell appealing - its small size and durability ...

Poised, powerful, and intentional, Justice Jackson sent a message with her main accessory of choice: a bold, layered cowrie shell necklace paired with matching earrings. Against her black ...

Natural cowry shells originally served this function. Around the eighth century BC replica spades and knives began to appear reflecting the region of their origin - knife money developed in areas ...

Wearing a striking layered cowrie shell necklace and matching earrings, Justice Jackson’s look was a blend of elegance and cultural significance, resonating deeply within the African American ...

Their relevance also sate beyond being used as money. They even represented power in trade: Europeans in the 16th century used cowries to enter African trade markets. Shells were used to purchase ...