Humans have treasured seashells for as long as they have collected pretty things. Why do they have such a hold over us?
With vibrant colours and a multitude of shapes and textures, seashells are biological treasures, magical messengers from the sea. Seashells inspire artists, shape cultures and adorn garments. In many ancient cultures seashells were accepted as currency. In Africa they were bartered among tribes, communities, and royal courts. They enabled long-distance trade across boundaries and between strangers. While seashells are no longer used as money, they still hold mystical and symbolic significance in African societies.
