Cowrie shells have a long, layered history that stretches far beyond their recent resurgence in home decor. Long before they appeared on coffee tables, wall hangings, or sculptural objects, cowries ...

Money cowrie’s were “highly valued by many African cultures” and even used as currency, according to the Carlos Museum at Emory University. City of Boston Archaeology Program photo Finding a Pacific ...

Shells are the true gems of the ocean and a beachcomber’s most prized find. Although, commonly used today to adorn necklaces, earrings and bracelets, or to decorate the home, shells and their ...

Justine Wintjes works at the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, where the São Bento cowries are housed and some are on display. The research this article is based on arose from the workshop 'Ilha de Moçambique: ...