The oldest pieces of jewelry crafted by humans have been discovered by scientists. These include three shells dating back 90,000 to 100,000 years.
Two of these shells were found in Skhul Cave on the slopes of Mount Carmel in Israel, while the third shell was located in the Oued Djebbana area of Algeria. These decorative artifacts predate the previously known oldest specimens by over 25,000 years.
The objects, shaped like beads, feature uniform holes that allow them to be strung together to create necklaces or bracelets.
All three shells come from a marine mollusk species known as Nassarius; they were selected for their size and were drilled through with a sharp flint tool.
“What’s fascinating about these necklaces is their symbolic significance. When you wear them, you are sending a message,” said Professor Chris Stringer from the Natural History Museum. “The message could be that we are strong, wealthy, or attractive, or it could signify belonging to a particular group, or serve to ward off evil spirits. They are not just decorative but also have social meaning.”
M.T.