December 03, 2007

Presents for Christmas


Apart from religious meaning, Christmas is also a season for presents.
Bagi , reddish-pink shell necklace is probably one of the most famous accessories and valuable presents in Papua New Guinea. It is only produced in remote islands of Milne Bay Province, and was a important trade item in oldern days.

In a Kula trade circle in islands of Milne Bay, Bagi was used as currency, passed on from the islands to islands in clockwise. There was another item - Arm band made out of shell (Mwali) which was going anti-clockwise on the group of islands.

Unfortunately, it is not a mass-produced item and can not be found in shops.
If you visit Milne Bay, ask people if they have Bagi. If you are lucky, you may be able to buy one and it will be your treasure for life.

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