GIANTCLAMSHELL RING, “yua” 
Abelam and Arapesh people 
Papua New Guinea.

These areimportant wealth objects – essentially money. They were cut from the giant  
clamshell (Tidacna giagantis) using only bamboo and sand. In the Abelam language 
they are called “YUA”. They weremost highly prized, used principally as the central object  
of a bride price. The most important aspect of the “YUA” isthat the central circle is a  
perfect form. The outer rim is not of greatimportance, as the shell can dictate variations.  
It is, however, the contemporary beauty of these shell rings that makesthem so beautiful  
to the Western eye. 
Until veryrecent times, there was a reluctance to part with these important heirlooms. 
This is why they so rarely appear in early collections.

Size: 23 cmdiameter  (11 inches)

Weight: 1.1kg (2.5 ib)

For international shipping please email or message for a quote.