Scientists have reason to believe that ostrich eggshells carved into beads in Africa 50,000 years ago might have been part of humans’ first social network.
Researchers examined around 1,500 ancient beads excavated from 31 sites across eastern and southern sections of Africa and found artifacts were nearly identical in shape, size, and style.
The findings identified that the oldest beads came from East Africa and spread to South Africa. Possibly a result of seeing someone with the beads and coping with the design when they got to their destination.
Bead wearing in ancient times was a way to express identity and define relationships. Throughout the years, it became more popular and the relation to meaningfulness still exists, for example, wedding rings may display relationship status.
Original post by David Kindy/Smithsonian Magazine
Read more here: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/first-social-network-might-have-involved-beads-carved-from-ostrich-eggshells-180979542/
