Ornaments as social and chronological icons

Abstract

Studies of ornaments from the Zimbabwe plateau have focused mainly on glass beads. When other ornaments are referred to, little effort is made to produce a broad classification to enhance broader comparisons across the spectrum of ornaments in the region. This article examines archaeological ornaments as chronological indicators and communication devices. The period to be covered ranges from the eight to the eighteenth centuries AD, in southern Africa. In addition, the study attempts to contribute to filling the spatial gap between the well-researched areas of Mapungubwe to the south and Great Zimbabwe to the north of the Limpopo.