8,500-Year-Old Scallop Shell Beads Reveal Ancient California Trade Networks
Score 66 · Coverage 1
Americas · United States · Aug 11, 2026
Primary source: Archaeology Magazine
Two ancient beads crafted from giant rock scallops were discovered in California, with the oldest dating back 8,500 years, suggesting these rare items signified high status among Indigenous peoples and traveled extensive trade routes.
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