Ancient Shell Trade reveals the surprising importance of shells in pre-modern economies, where they functioned not just as adornments but as currency and status symbols. Across diverse cultures, from the Americas to Africa and Oceania, shells like cowrie and spondylus fueled trade networks and reflected sophisticated systems of valuation. Archaeological findings demonstrate that the geological distribution of shell species significantly influenced cultural development, with proximity to these resources shaping economic practices and social structures.
The book systematically explores the world of shell currency, examining valuation systems and exchange rates across different regions. It further investigates the social significance of shell adornments, revealing how specific types and arrangements signified status, kinship, and religious affiliation.
Using an interdisciplinary approach, the book draws upon archaeological excavations, ethnographical studies, and historical documents to provide a comprehensive analysis. The narrative progresses from introducing key shell types and their geographic origins to analyzing their function as currency and social signifiers. It then explores the trade routes that facilitated their distribution before concluding with an analysis of the decline of shell-based economies following European contact.
This provides valuable insights into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient peoples.
