Wampum Beads

What Are Wampum Beads?

Wampum beads are small, cylindrical beads traditionally made from white and purple quahog shell. The wampum beads have cultural and spiritual significance to many Native American tribes.  Among other uses, they use them to make wampum belts. Historically wampum belts conveyed important messages and agreements between tribes.  Wampum beads of both shell and glass are also used to create intricate beadwork designs on necklaces and bracelets.

You can read more about the history of wampum in our article Wampum Beads History.  Click here for the history of Wampum.