Collection
Mandu Mandu Necklace
Ancient adornments of cultural heritage
The Mandu Mandu Necklace, a remarkable replica (original located in the WA Museum's Collections), showcases a piece of history that offers insight into ancient craftsmanship. This necklace replicates what is believed to be the oldest jewellery in the world.
Dating back 32,000 years, these shell pieces feature delicately made holes, indicating that they were threaded onto a string. This suggests that Aboriginal people were creating personal adornments such as necklaces, belts, or bracelets long before similar practices were documented in ancient Europe.
The Mandu Mandu Necklace not only highlights the ingenuity and creativity of the Aboriginal people but also stands as a testament to their rich cultural heritage. This artefact provides a fascinating glimpse into the early development of human artistic expression and cultural identity.
MAKE IT YOUR OWN