Perforated shells found at South Africa's Blombos Cave appear to have been strung as beads about 75,000 years ago-making them 30,000 years older than any previously identified personal ornaments.

Two of the most commonly accepted theories for the origin of money are the commodity theory and the chartalist theory. Both have drawbacks, but in recent years, the chartalist theory has gained much ...

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It’s not uncommon for archaeologists to stumble upon ancient tombs filled with grave goods. Usually, we see weapons, jewels, ...

Human culture developed slowly in northern Africa and the Middle East rather than bursting forth in Europe, suggest scientists, who have discovered what may be the oldest shell beads dating back ...

Excavations in eastern Morocco have yielded 13 perforated, pigment-stained shells that were probably strung together as some type of body ornament about 82,000 years ago, according to a new report.

An experimental replica of shell beads with Natufian red organic colorant made from the roots of Rubiaceae plants. (Laurent Davin/Creative Commons via Courthouse News) (CN) — The Natufians, the first ...

According to fashionistas, you are what your wear. But when did humans start decorating themselves for self-expression? Three bead-like shells from ancient Israel and Algeria suggest that such ...

Archaeologists show that the Chumash Indians had been using shell beads as money for at least 800 years. As one of the most experienced archaeologists studying California's Native Americans, Lynn ...