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Summary

Spondylus shells carved to make beads were a very important form of body adornment during the Latte period of CHamoru history (800 AD - 1700 AD). Spanish priests describe CHamoru women having their own parties specifically for wearing the belts and other jewelry made from spondylus shells. Spondylus is also sometimes found in female burials from the time period, where they were buried with the deceased perhaps as bracelets, belts or other forms of jewelry.

Spondylus shells

Spondylus shells
Spondylus shells carved to make beads were a very important form of body adornment during the Latte period of CHamoru history (800 AD – 1700 AD). Spanish priests describe CHamoru women having their own parties specifically for wearing the belts and other jewelry made from spondylus shells. Spondylus is also sometimes found in female burials from the time period, where they were buried with the deceased perhaps as bracelets, belts or other forms of jewelry.
 
The use of spondylus by our Ancient CHamoru women was no about part of their personal expression of beauty, creativity and fashion, but this and other forms of adornment were also meant to convey the wealth or status of the clan and family.

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